Xavi Hernandez says “Italy have changed” both in recent years and since the opening group game with Spain.
The Spaniards had the chance to knock Italy out in the group phase by drawing with Croatia, but they won 1-0, so will there be regrets if they then lose the Final?
Xavi Hernandez says “Italy have changed” both in recent years and since the opening group game with Spain.
The Spaniards had the chance to knock Italy out in the group phase by drawing with Croatia, but they won 1-0, so will there be regrets if they then lose the Final?
“I think we did our jobs in the group phase. There had been speculation about a draw but, as our Coach said, we never regret playing for the win and that’s also if we lose tomorrow.”
The two sides drew 1-1 in the opening group game on June 10, when the Azzurri adopted a 3-5-2 system.
“Italy have changed. They play catenaccio, but they’re also good with the ball. They’re more talented than ever.”
Xavi brushed off the growing belief that Spain have been ‘boring’ in Euro 2012.
“We enjoy our game and want to stay true to the style that has brought so much success in recent years. Our fans can identify that style. We enjoy it, our fans do and I think others ought to as well.
“If it is boring for people that Spain always win, then it is a fantastic thing for us! We are making history and are looking forward to tomorrow.
“We have achieved great things with Spain and at club level. We were very lucky to have a great generation of footballers and we have another chance to continue making history. We want to keep on improving over the years together.
“We just want to enjoy it, as we are in the second consecutive Euro Final. We want to do well and show everybody this side is still hungry for success.”