Allen Hamilton

What: 2013 European Under-21 Championship Final
Who: Italy U21 vs Spain U21
When: Tuesday 18th June, 2013, at 17:00 UK Time
Where: Teddy Stadium, Jerusalem, Israel

Azzurrini Showcase Lower League Talent

Italy were a side that were not underestimated in this summer's European Under-21 Championship, but most neutral observers would have placed Devis Mangia's men alongside England and Germany, in the group behind Holland and Spain, when it came to deciding who might wear the crown. While it is true that the Azzurrini have won this tournament a record five times, it is also true that a whole host of Maniga's men, especially in defence, played their football in Serie B last season, such is the lack of trust Serie A sides place in youth.

However, the situation is somewhat different further up the pitch where Marco Verratti, described as the 'brain' of the side, can be counted as one of the most promising midfielders in Europe, while Lorenzo Insigne and Fabio Borini both have real cutting edge. Nevertheless, despite an impressive 1-0 win over Holland U21s in the semi-final and a real sense of momentum, Mangia does not consider his side favourites against holders Spain.

"Spain have a great team and I don't mind if they are favourites", explained the young, Arrigo Sacchi-inspired tactician, while stressing his players truly believe in victory.  "I looked into the eyes of my players yesterday and no one is satisfied with just reaching the final. The players will all contribute and do their best. There is no doubt about  this in my mind, you just need to look at us to see the desire."

Business As Usual

To say that Spanish national teams have a winning mentality would be a gross understatement. Spain U21s won this tournament in 2011, and they show no sign of being ready to let their dominance end. Just as on the senior stage, Spain are the team to beat, and a final group match stuffing of Holland, albeit a much-changed Dutch side, has built momentum and further belief, if it were even needed.

Few expected Norway to stop Spain in the semi-final. And so it proved, as goals from Rodrigo, Isco and Alvaro Morata put the Norwegians to the sword. Stardust is sprinkled throughout the Spain side, from David de Gea in goal, Martin Montoya at the back, Thiago Alcantara and Isco in midfield and the lethal Morata up front. And this is a group left at home while Vicente del Bosque's men battle in the Confederations Cup in Brazil.

But, despite the resources at his fingertips, Spain coach Julen Lopetegui is affording Italy every respect. "Italy are a very difficult team to play against, they have good defensive qualities. They are also a physical side with good tactics", he said.
 

Recent form

Italy U21:
Israel 0-4 Italy (08/06; Euro U21)
Norway 1-1 Italy (11/06; Euro U21)
Italy 1-0 Holland (15/06; Euro U21)

Spain U21:
Germany 0-1 Spain (09/06; Euro U21)
Spain 3-0 Holland (12/06; Euro U21)
Spain 3-0 Norway (15/06; Euro U21)

Players to watch

Italy – Marco Verratti: The 'brain' of Italy's side, Verratti conducts the Azzurrini's tune and a fine performance from him will move Mangia's men a step closer towards winning the tournament. Verratti will surely be targeted by the Spanish however, who will attempt to shut him down.

Spain – Alvaro Morata: A striker in goalscoring form is a valuable asset and in Morata, Spain have exactly that, with four goals to his name in the tournament so far. The Real Madrid man has had the golden touch in Israel and if he can reproduce his earlier feats in Jerusalem, a Spanish victory is on the cards.

Match Prediction

Italy's presence in the final is not exactly a surprise, but their name could just as easily have been replaced with that of Holland, England or Germany and an eyebrow would not have been raised. Spain's attendance though appears compulsory in the modern era and the depth of talent in their squad is impressive. While Italy may be able to breach the Spanish backline, they will not be able to stop Spain breaching theirs – and more often. Spain 3-1 Italy.

Betting on Italy U21 v Spain U21? Don't before you've read our betting preview!