Alonso staying positive

Spain midfielder Xabi Alonso praised Italy after the European champions were held to a 1-1 draw at Euro 2012 on Sunday.

Vicente Del Bosque’s side had to come from behind after substitute Antonio Di Natale’s goal, and Cesc Fabregas netted an equaliser just three minutes later.

Speaking after the match, Alonso insisted a draw was a creditable result against Cesare Prandelli’s side.

“We are not surprised by our opponents,” he told AS. “We knew they were a good team, a very complex one.

“When they scored, the game became difficult but we had the peace of mind to get the draw and keep on pushing.

“It was a shame not to have won, but you must not underestimate Italy.

“The important thing was not going behind, but now we realise that there is little margin for error.”

Spain raised some eyebrows after lining up without a recognised striker in the team, but Alonso felt midfielder Fabregas did a fine job in an unfamiliar role up front.

“There is much to say about it, but I was not surprised at all,” the former Liverpool man said.

“He did a great job up top and that’s not easy. He scored the goal after showing great movement of a ‘nine’. He has confidence and we now have options.

“It was important to equalise quickly.”