Misfired Italians defeated by Spain in penalties

Italy couldn't wait to show the world the 4-0 scoreline in Euro 2012 was never reflective of their ability against Spain. On a night without Balotelli, Prandelli showcased the best of Italian football but could only blame themselves for ruining the best opportunity to stage the revenge.

Spain celebrating after Navas' penalty

Italy appeared to have start with a defensive line of four. However, with Chiellini playing as a left fullback, this allowed Maggio to freely roam forward. The Napoli wingback formed an athletic partnership with Candreva on the right and completely outshone the sporting Jordi Alba.

Emanuele Giaccherini, who had been supporting Balotelli on the left wing in group stage, dropped and played more as a wing back this match. When Maggio went forward, Giaccherini went as deep as fullback to fill the void. The discipline in defence did not cause the small winger to vanish in counter-attack. He offered invaluable support to Gilardino and was the first Italian to test Casillas in the first half.

Italy was content to let Spanish have more of the ball. Unlike a year ago, rigidity in defence was effective in stopping La Roja's penetrating passes and runs, although Fernando Torres would argue it was himself missing Spain's best and only chance in the first half rather than being silenced by the Azzurri.

On the other hand, Italy only needed to net one out of their nine chances to grab a lead at half time. Only if Marchisio or Maggio being more composed, or De Rossi got more of the ball with his forehead, would have done the favour. 

Never afraid to change

Prandelli was not shy in taking the initiative in the tactical contest and was decisive to introduce Montolivo for defender Barzagli. De Rossi dropped to centreback position, a similar setting to Italy's group stage match against Spain in Euro 2012. De Rossi and Montolivo were both capable to share the workload of playmaker Andrea Pirlo, while not sacrificing too much of their defensive force. 

Vincente Del Bosque was confident with the backup plans in his pocket as well. Rather than the dominating football they have demonstrated in the past 7 years, they were mirroring the Italy in first half and relied more on the speedy Jesu Navas in counter attack.  Del Bosque might have little choice, with his side looking jaded after playing four matches in ten days under the humid condition.

Somehow, this exploited the weakness of Italy, as they were missing a clinical finisher when Balotelli was sidelined. Gilardino gave his everything to the nation but struggled to sustain his presence as time went by. It is no easy task to play as a lone striker against Spain. Even at the class of Balotelli failed to perform in Euro final last year.

With the bench looking shallow, Prandelli opted for Giovinco over El Shaarawy as his last chip in Extra Time. However, a fresher front three, with Javi Martinez surprisingly playing as central striker, coupled with the tiring Italian defence, Spain looked way more threatening beyond the 90 minutes mark. Pique's defender boots, Buffon's strong hand and a bit of help by the post brought Italy to the penalty stage.

Italian's future will be built around Balotelli

A masterclass in penalty left two of the best goalkeepers in the world helpless to get a touch of the ball. Bonucci was the odd one out who could not convert and Italy unfortunately was beaten by Spain once again. They outclassed Spain tactically in regular time, but Prandelli may need to step up his attacking force to have a better shot next year at Brazil.