Italy booked their place in the quarter-finals of Euro 2016 with a comprehensive win over a lifeless Spain in Saint-Denis.
The Azzurri were outstanding in their victory, showing patience, grit, and cohesion, while the Spaniards were truly outfoxed and struggled to impose their trademark ‘tiki-taka’ style. The ruthless Italian defence made light work of La Furia Roja ’s lacklustre attack – a stark comparison to the 4-0 demolition of Italy when they met in the previous final of the continental showcase.
Outside90’s Adam Pallotta identifies the three worst performers from the contest.
Cesc Fabregas
The No. 10 really struggled to find space and threaten the Italian defence, in an overall poor day for his country. Since the loss of Xavi, Spain has struggled to dominate the midfield and Fabregas has not managed to satisfactorily fill the void. He can offer a tempting skillset, but looked out of touch and the playacting following a soft challenge from Pelle underlines his inability to match it with the cool-headed Italians.
Alvaro Morata
The Real Madrid forward has spent the last two seasons on loan with Juventus, and that could not have been more obvious. The opposition defensive trio shut him down with ease, and this drew frustration from the young striker. A lot of expectation was placed on him to provide the finish, but the lack of supply from his teammates did not help. His only real chance – a free header from inside the six-yard box – was poorly executed and bounced off his shoulder. Hot property in the current transfer window, he will need to hope his potential suitors can overlook this performance.
Jordi Alba
Barcelona’s Jordi Alba was one member of a weak-minded backline who all failed to take the game on, and allowed Italy to regain possession easily and control the pace. The left-back was convincingly beaten by second choice wingback Alessandro Florenzi on a number of occasions and failed to match his heroics against Italy in the Euro 2012 final.
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