Spain and Italy face off in a battle of European super powers in the Confederations Cup 2013 on Thursday.
Spain enters the contest with a perfect record of three wins in three games. Spain defeated Uruguay 2-1 in the opener before trouncing Tahiti 10-0. In the final group match, Spain defeated Nigeria 3-0.
Meanwhile Italy defeated Mexico 2-1 in its first group match before winning 4-3 against Japan. In the final game, Italy lost 4-2 against Brazil.
The game is a rematch of last year's Euro Cup final where Spain defeated Italy 4-0 on the way to becoming the first international side to win three straight major tournaments.
"It will be a great semi-final. We will see who's the lucky one to progress. There's not really much to say about it, but we do not fear anyone," Spain midfielder Andres Iniesta told Tele 5. "We never show any fear and even less so against Italy. We'll meet a great Italy team, though, and we cannot underestimate them. We are only one step away from the final."
Italy Captain Gianluigi Buffon echoed Iniesta's comments. "We've played each other in the past two European Championships and we're playing again... Spain is always a tough opponent, but we aren't scored," he stated in an interview with Marca. "We have a clear-cut plan. Right now, Spain is the strongest team in the world and we have to contain its midfield. We have to play a very serious game, remain focused and try not to let their players get comfortable on the ball. I think that we're going to play a great game."
Italy will be without striker Mario Balotelli after he was sent back home with an injury. Despite being left out of the game, Balotelli has been active in talking up the match on social media.
"I have been waiting for Spain for a year. Revenge is a dish best served cold," Balotelli wrote on his Facebook Page.
Regarding Balotelli's remarks, Iniesta responded, "Balotelli wants revenge? It will be a nice semi-final and we will see what happens. He trusts in his team and we in ours."
Prediction: Italy's defense has been porous and the injuries to major players should play huge factors. Look for Spain to win 2-0.
Start Time: 3 PM EST
TV: ESPN, Univision
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