Del Bosque wary of Italy threat to Spain
Spain coach Vicente del Bosque has admitted that he is worried about the strength of Italy in Euro 2012, after the pair were drawn to meet each other in their very first match of the competition.
The two teams join Croatia and Ireland in Group C of the European Championship, in what will be a repeat of the 2008 quarter-final. Spain triumphed in that game on penalties, and went on to lift the title.
Speaking on Friday following the draw, however, Del Bosque recognised that his charges would have to be at their very best to down the Italians, who won 2-1 in August's friendly meeting between the two nations.
"Italy have only just beaten us and they are strong opponents," the coach told Cuatro Television, adding that he was otherwise pleased with the outcome of the draw.
"It will be tough, in the European Championships there are 16 tough teams and every one poses their own threat. But the outcome that I wanted has come to fruition [avoiding Germany and playing in Poland].
"We have to play a more renowned team like Italy, and two teams that made it through the play-offs.
"We will prepare carefully, we have to focus on our own game and get ready."
Spain and Italy will meet in the opening game of Group C on June 10, in the Polish city of Gdansk. [Goal.com]
Speaking on Friday following the draw, however, Del Bosque recognised that his charges would have to be at their very best to down the Italians, who won 2-1 in August's friendly meeting between the two nations.
"Italy have only just beaten us and they are strong opponents," the coach told Cuatro Television, adding that he was otherwise pleased with the outcome of the draw.
"It will be tough, in the European Championships there are 16 tough teams and every one poses their own threat. But the outcome that I wanted has come to fruition [avoiding Germany and playing in Poland].
"We have to play a more renowned team like Italy, and two teams that made it through the play-offs.
"We will prepare carefully, we have to focus on our own game and get ready."
Spain and Italy will meet in the opening game of Group C on June 10, in the Polish city of Gdansk. [Goal.com]