Prediction: Spain U21 vs Italy U21

Verdict: Home win

Best Odds: 8/13

Bookmaker: bet365

Two of the most decorated European sides at Under-21 level will square off in the semi-final of the European Championship in Poland, but they head into the game in contrasting moods. While Spain won all three group games, Italy enjoyed a controversial 1-0 triumph over Germany to squeeze into the final four.

Spain U21

Four-time winners Spain arrived at the tournament finals in Poland high on spirits and with a star-studded squad, so no wonder they were made the main candidates for the coveted trophy. With players like Hector Bellerin, Marco Asensio, Jose Gaya, Saul, Denis Suarez and Gerard Deulofeu in the ranks, La Furia Roja enjoyed a bright start to the championship, hammering FYR Macedonia 5-0 before the 3-1 triumph over Portugal secured their place in the semi-finals. As a result, head coach Albert Celades decided to rest his key men in the final group game against Serbia, but his side, nonetheless, ran out 1-0 winners. This means that Spain go into the semi-final clash with record holders Italy brimming with confidence, although it is clear they will not have an easy job in Krakow. The Under-21 side not only won last five matches on all fronts, but they are unbeaten in last 12, meaning they’ve got to be considered favourites in the semi-final clash against Italy.

Team News

Head coach Albert Celades has absolutely no selection worries ahead of the high-profile game against Italy, according to reports.

Italy U21

Italy remain Europe’s most successful side at Under-21 level with five trophies to their name, but they didn’t exactly impress in the latest qualifying campaign. Azzurrini narrowly pipped Serbia to the first place in the group and automatic qualifying berth, and they have faced some tough challenges at the tournament finals. Luigi Di Biagio’s side had a good start as they defeated Denmark 2-0, but the 3-1 loss to Czech Republic that followed threatened to end their qualifying hopes. A 1-0 win in the final group game would have been enough in case the Czechs lost, and that is exactly what happened as Federico Bernardeschi’s goal secured a place in the semis. Luigi Di Biagio’s gamble with a 4-4-2 formation where wingers Berardi and Bernardeschi started up front clearly worked, but the problem is that the Sassuolo star is banned for the Spain clash, just like arguably world’s most promising right-back Andrea Conti.

Team News

Domenico Berardi and Andrea Conti miss out through suspension, meaning that Andrea Petagna and Davide Calabria should start.

Key Factors to Consider

• Italy (5) and Spain (4) are most successful European sides at U21 level
• Spain recorded 4-2 triumph over Italy in the 2013 final
• The two sides are tied at 3 wins each in their last eight meetings
• Spain have 6 wins in 7 Euro semi-finals
• Azzurrini lost three of last seven matches (W3 D1)

Conclusion

Spain have been thoroughly impressive at the tournament finals and we expect them to secure their progress to the final, although revived Italy can be trusted to put up a good fight. However, the loss of Berardi and Conti will prove too much for the Azzurrini.

Verdict: Home win

Best Odds: 8/13

Bookmaker: bet365