Spain v Italy, 27 June 2013

Kick-off: 4.00pm local (8.00pm BST) Match Report Although Spain started quickly, it was Italy who had most of the early chances and looked dangerous on the break. Maggio's low cross found Gilardino who shot just wide. The Azzuri also had some success with the long ball over the top. Maggio stole in and headed towards goal however his effort was well saved by Casillas. De Rossi and Marchisio each had an excellent chances to give Italy the lead. Both had headed efforts which were disappointing. Maggio then squandered a glorious opportunity. Casillas did brilliantly to stop his close range header after a Giaccherini cross. Torres nearly punished Italy for their wastefulness straight away when he turned his man and shot wide. There was not much between the two sides for much of the second half. Pedro was able to get clear on one occasion although Buffon got out well to put off the forward. Towards the end of the half Italy started to dominate possession and were racking up the corners. Pique found himself involved in a Spanish counter attack. The defender blasted over as an opportunity fell his way in the box. Into extra time and Giaccherini crashed one against the post. Jordi Alba also went close as he volleyed over the bar. As the game seemed to be harmlessly heading to penalties, out of nowhere Xavi had a long ranged effort which Buffon touched onto the post. Navas also went close. The match went to penalties. Both sides scored their first six penalties. In sudden death Bonucci was the first one to miss. Jesus Navas stepped up to secure Spain's place in the final. Preview Spain will take on Italy in a repeat of last summer's European Championships final. On that occasion Spain ran out comfortable 4 - 0 winners. Fernando Torres is vying with Roberto Soldado for the starting striker spot. Soldado, who has been preferred so far, was disappointing against Nigeria whilst Torres scored within minutes of coming on. Having used a different goalkeeper in each match so far it is unclear who Del Bosque will go for during the knockout stage. Italy have a number of key absentees. Pirlo, De Rossi and Balotelli are all unavailable. Prandelli's side will be desperate to improve defensively having uncharacteristically conceded nine in the group stage. Buffon is also under pressure after he was arguably at fault for all four of the goals conceded against Brazil.