re: Confederations Cup Semifinal: 6/27 Spain vs. Italy

Well Pirlo has been running the Italian midfield since 2004. The biggest change is the back three, which allows the wingbacks to press high up the field, as well as letting Marchisio make runs from midfield to support the striker. Also De Rossi is an underrated passer himself, with the ability to make accurate passes anywhere on the pitch while also protecting Pirlo from getting marked out of the game. The Italians are set up perfectly.

The Spanish need to add width and somehow give Alba some protection on the left. Navas playing high on the right can nullify the Italian left while removing a central player can help alleviate the congestion in the middle of the pitch.