No Loss for Spain

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Spain kicked off its Euro2012 campaign by drawing with Italy (1-1) after encountering all types of situation. Everything has to be won here and 'La Roja' was capable of at least coming away with a draw against Italy who could not hold on to the prize that Pirlo provided, assisting in the Di Natale goal.

Three minutes later, Spain rubbed its magic lamp and two genies appeared; first Iniesta, then Silva, scored by Cesc, masquerading as a forward and scoring the Champions’ only goal in Gdansk. While not benefitting from the encounter, at least it did not lose as happened two years ago in South Africa.

Spain could have won but it could also have lost. The second half was a delightful mess that shattered old-fashioned stereotypes. With neither Italy waiting in defence nor Spain keeping the ball from them. They were equally matched and Iniesta gave a lesson on how to play football.

Del Bosque also completely ignored the strategy that everyone was expecting. He did not play Torres, or Negredo, or Llorente. Fàbregas started to reinforce the midfield zone. In the first half, Spain was boring with its openings.

It made no shots on goal, forgetting that in football not only those in the goal area count. Italy was less romantic and Casillas felt it, particularly from a free-kick by Pirlo and a close shave from a header by Motta before half time.



Spanish Press pretty much isn't too up in arms, seems they think starting off with a draw is a major improvement over the last tourney, and we saw how that turned out.

Torres's review is kind of a mixed bag. Most give him shite for his f'ups, others, that he created occasions or opportunities, and he'll eventually snap out of it (or at least create much needed working space for those who can do something with the ball).

God I miss Llorente.