Spain takes on Italy on Wednesday, March 5, 2014 (1:00 PM Pacific) in a World Cup warm up that sees some notable exclusions on both sides, that could mean some high profile players missing out in the summer.
Both Juan mata and Fernando Torres have been overlooked by Vincente Del Bosque and it looks likely that they could struggle to find a place on the plane come the summer, for Italy both Balotelli (injured) and Daniele De Rossi are not in the squad, the latter being dropped for punching an opponent over the weekend.
Spain Squad news
Diego Costa will make his debut having pledged his allegiance to the World Champions instead of Brazil, the country in which he was born. The striker has been in remarkable form this season and he could represent the option that means Spain will no longer play six midfielders, but will actually select a front man going forward.
Spain’s embarrassment of riches in midfield will be a point of jealousy for every rival country, but also with Negredo, Alcantra and Javi Martinez joining the squad, it’s impossible to find an area where they may be slightly weak. Although Brazil may be favorites on their home turf in the summer, if Del Bosque can find the right formula within his wealth of available talent, it would be difficult to look beyond the Spanish.
Italy Squad News
Italy include the backbone of the team that performed so admirably at the Euro 2012 in their squad. Buffon, Chiellini, Thiago Motta, Pirlo and Gilardino will be the players that take responsibility, as Italy look to their first game of the World Cup against England in Brazil. Prandelli has called up a few experimental players, including Southampton outcast Osvaldo, who is currently on loan at Juventus and Sunderland’s Giaccherini who may both be given minutes to impress.
Spain vs Italy Prediction
Historically, the Spanish have the upper hand over Italy and it will be an experimental lineup for the Italians, which could mean Spain open them up. Spain are at home and with arguably the most in form out and out striker in Europe making his debut, it could be a good victory for Spain here. The Spain vs Italy match will end in a 2-0 victory for the Spaniards.
Spain vs Italy Television
The Spain vs Italy match will be televised on ESPN Deportes, ESPN 2, and ESPN 3.
The Spain vs Italy highlights will be uploaded as soon as the match ends.
