Spain favourites, says Prandelli

Italy coach Cesare Prandelli has underlined that his side are underdogs for Sunday’s Euro 2012 final against Spain.

Italy defeated Germany 2-1 in Thursday’s semi-final with Mario Balotelli scoring both goals in the first half.

A late goal from Mesut Ozil was not enough to deny Italy a place in the showpiece decider.

After the match, Prandelli hailed his team’s display, and despite watching his side eliminate one of the heavy favourites for the tournament, he has tipped Spain to retain their European crown.

“In the last 15 minutes, we wasted so many opportunities to make it 3-0, then our players had nothing left and we were forced to defend in the area,” Prandelli told Rai Sport.

“We showed on the field everything we had prepared.

“Spain? They are clearly the favourites in terms of experience and quality, but we will be there to fight.

“We showed today just how much we respect and honour this shirt.”

Sunday’s final is in Kiev where Spain and Italy drew 1-1 when they met in the opening Group C fixture.