Italy v Spain

by Left Midfield on Jun 22, 2008 4:53 AM BST Comment 19 comments

Open Thread

Consider this a space to give your thoughts on this one. If the pattern continues Italy will storm forward and eventually beat the group winners Spain. I believe that Spain should win BUT after the last 3 quarter finals, I am not so sure. Perhaps this one will finish 2-1 Italy....what do you think?

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Can't believe I am looking forward to this

After watching Russia’s huge upset, I eagerly await this afternoon’s match between Spain and Italy. To me, it all comes down to food: I prefer Italain over Spanish food, unless it is of the southern Mediterranean variety, i.e more of a Middle Eastern flavor; so, I guess I will be rooting for the Italians today!

Any experts in the game of Futbol care to clew this “Novice” into the keys of today’s match?

by futbolnovice on Jun 22, 2008 4:50 PM BST reply actions 0 recs

Welcome

Glad you are watching the match today. Here is my completely unbiased and objectively considered take:

Italy is historically known for their rock solid defense, and has the best keeper in the world (arguably). They are also good at diving and whining their way to victories. Spain has more midfield and attacking options than anyone could know what to do with, and two of the three best strikers in the tournament (after Pavyluchenko). Also, their defense is abyssmal, they always crack under pressure, and their coach is a racist. Should be fun!

"You’re the only here who contributes schtick only." - brettgardner

by trza on Jun 22, 2008 6:05 PM BST up reply actions 0 recs

agree 100%

Show 'em your a panther... Show 'em what you can do....

by stuck in Romania on Jun 22, 2008 8:06 PM BST up reply actions 0 recs

thanks!

The biggest item you noted for me was Spain’s racist coach; so go Italy and then we can all enjoy some good Italian food and beer tonight!

But I get the main point: Italy’s defense wins verus Spain’s better offense. In all sports, it is defense that wins big games.

by futbolnovice on Jun 22, 2008 8:23 PM BST up reply actions 0 recs

I really hate Italy

I hope Spain makes them feel pain.

"You’re the only here who contributes schtick only." - brettgardner

by trza on Jun 22, 2008 5:59 PM BST reply actions 0 recs

oh and yes...once again... 100%

Show 'em your a panther... Show 'em what you can do....

by stuck in Romania on Jun 22, 2008 8:07 PM BST up reply actions 0 recs

How about the ball possesion....

70-30 for Espana

Show 'em your a panther... Show 'em what you can do....

by stuck in Romania on Jun 22, 2008 8:08 PM BST reply actions 0 recs

Itally plain and simple bore me every time.

Show 'em your a panther... Show 'em what you can do....

by stuck in Romania on Jun 22, 2008 8:31 PM BST reply actions 0 recs

This match so far has unfurled just the way Italy would like...

...now all they need is that neatly crafted goal against the run of play and they are all set. It is definitely frustrating, but it seems to work quite well for them. And Spain are right now doing what they always do: not capitalizing on opportunities.

I hope they prove me wrong

by Right Foot de Koeman on Jun 22, 2008 8:46 PM BST reply actions 0 recs