Spain vs. Italy Euro 2016 Preview, Predictions, Live Stream, Schedule As Teams Meet in the Round of 16
Spain and Italy face off in the round of 16 of the Euro 2016.
This is a repeat of the 2012 Final, but few expected it to happen this quickly.
Spain made it happen on its final day of Group D, a performance that proved that the team is no longer invincible. That 2-1 defeat against Croatia was the team's first loss in the competition since 2004, a span of time in which the team won the tournament twice.
And Spain looked poised for a deep run yet again after two strong performances against Czech Republic and Turkey. With a win, they would have entered the simple side of the bracket, avoiding Italy, Germany and potentially France.
But now that is the path that faces Spain if it hopes to retain its crown. No one is afraid this time around.
Least of all Italy, which has been stalwart on defense through its first three games. The offense has not been great, but the defense has been impenetrable as they come. Stats however indicate that Italy has yet to be elite in any department in this tournament, so Spain does stand a chance to win this outright.
Player to watch
Andres Iniesta slowed down a bit against Croatia, but he has been one of the best this tournament has had to offer thus far. Look for him to take back control of the match against Italy and impose himself.
History says...
Spain has the edge, winning 11 and losing eight to Italy. The sides have drawn 11 times as well. The two teams have a recent history in these tournaments with Spain defeating Italy 4-0 in the 2012 Final and also defeating Italy on penalties in the 2008 quarterfinals.
Prediction
Spain tops Italy 2-1.
Match schedule and streaming info
That match kicks off at 12 p.m. EDT on Monday June 27. It can be viewed online via the WatchESPN app.
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