Spain v Italy Match of the Day Live

Welcome to Kiev for the final of Euro 2012. Spain are on the brink

of making history by becoming the first European team to win three

majors in a row. Standing in their way, Italy, world champions

The two best teams seized their chances when it mattered, where

beat this. There is room for Mario Balotelli. Can he get a double? He

It is a game of fractions, knowing Spain at their wonderful best.

Andrea Pirlo. Alessandro de ne It went down to the thickness of a

It will come down to a moment, but This was the tournament that was

not supposed to work, it was too far away, the grounds were too far

apart, not all fans would be welcomed. They were, and it has

worked, and hope for me tonight, Spain and Italy can produce a final

to make Poland and Ukraine feel proud. Inside the Olympic Stadium,

Alan Hansen, Gianluca Vialli and Alan Shearer. Three weeks, 61 goals

they go, Spain met Italy, it was 1- 1, but now, there is much more at

stake. I sit here tonight, I am representing the thousands of

Italians who live in your country. I do that with pride, because we

have once again shown the world that we might not be the best when

it comes to producing politicians, but we can certainly produced,

among other things, great players, great managers, great player

managers, more importantly! The spirit of this team has been an

example, an inspiration for this country. We have reminded ourselves

that we can be very clever, very smart, hard-working, United. We are

going to a difficult time with the scandals, and sometimes, winning a

match on a football pitch can change the destiny and the future

of the country. I hope it will happen tonight. It will be

difficult, two terrific sides, the best in the tournament? Absolutely,

out and out quality. We have talked about Spain for the last four

seasons, the passing and moving up, against the Portuguese, they were

poor for 90 minutes, and then they came to life in extra-time. They

were magnificent. The Italians, a bit like 2006, early on I thought,

a bit pedestrian, then all of a sudden, against the Germans, it was

electric, and it was one of the great performances in European

history. Spain have gone by hundred minutes without conceding a goal in

the knockout stages -- 900 minutes. They have changed the face of the

way people are looking at them, how they play. They have six in

midfield, without his centre- forward. There will be coaches

looking around the world, thinking it, can we play that way? But not

only that, defensively, they are so hard to beat. They do not concede

many goals. Only one in this tournament, against Italy in the

first game. We watched Italy draw against New Zealand two years ago.

Now, they are in the final, and they deserve it. The Spanish are

not moving bit as well as they have done previously. It is never an

Paul Wappat local, maybe Xavi is getting older. Andres Iniesta has

been terrific. They have not been They do not have a proven striker,

Cesc Fabregas is in. Just the one change, replacing Alvaro Negredo.

The centre-forward is not a player, it is the empty space, in front and

behind of the central defenders. Every now and then, the midfielders

have got to make the run in that space. They have got an opportunity

to make history, no team has won three major championships in their

growth. If they do that, they should be known as the best team

ever. They are a wonderful sight. Jordi Alba has done really well,

with Andres Iniesta. Then the middle is crowded, if you have got

to have the wit. With all the talk of the Spanish being boring, we are

hoping that a Italy entertain us! We have been very entertaining. I

am not surprised that we got to the final, because this is the ninth

time, we are quite good at getting there. But this is different. What

is surprising is the way we are planed. We are very brave, we keep

possession of the ball, we are very effective. It has been wonderful.

An interesting change of tactics from the first match, when Italy

had three at the back. They have brought it that they're about back

in. -- Ignazio Abate. Giorgio Chiellini goes to left-back.

Different two were outstanding. Andrea Pirlo, he is immense. This

is Mario Balotelli, talking to his brother in the crowd. He seemed

very relaxed before the game. As well he might, scoring two in the

semi-final. He is wonderful, to be a proper centre forward, he has

realised you cannot just show off, you have got to be prepared to do

the dirty stuff, you have got to run the channels, hold the ball up,

chase it, get free kicks, and if he combines his amazing technical

skills with his athleticism... coach deserves credit for the way

he has played in the tournament. He has put an arm around him, told him

how great he thinks he is, and he has responded. The atmosphere has

been building all day. We have been As the fans are turning up, a

mixture of anticipation and apprehension. We hope we can find a

couple of tickets so we can watch the game! A few months ago, Michel

Platini questioned whether Ukraine would be allowed to host the

tournament, and now he says the country has its greatest sporting

legacy. We have had a great time, travelling around. We have got our

Olympic games, we are looking forward to a raft of stadia, they

have a crack out of seer -- they have a great atmosphere here, and

they have seen Ukraine is a great country. We have enjoyed it, 1 1/2

million people, massive TV audiences, it has been stunning.

The football has been great. Record crowds in the stadium, record

audiences on the TV, and the Ukraine have played their part.

have seen some good talent, I was pleased to see Andriy Shevchenko

score in this stadium. You shared in the emotion of the Ukrainian

people. He has been flying their flat for many years. Football wise,

what have we learned? From an English perspective, we are looking

at the Dutch, playing in a World Cup two years ago and achieving

nothing here, and we look at the Italians, making it to a final,

they finished bottom in the World Cup. That is what we should look to

in terms of building for the future. We talk about the grass roots, we

can the cat that, but if we are organised and have good coaches...

The tactics are important. England might be playing in a World Cup

final in two years. Tonight, it is about Spain and Italy. How do you

see the game going? We are in for a great match. The Spanish, the way

they pass the ball. I have watched the semi-final again, they pass the

ball beautifully, some great technique. Andrea Pirlo will not

have the space he has enjoyed in the past, Sergio Ramos and Gerard

Pique have been outstanding. Mario Balotelli against those two will be

very interesting. It is not just the players that are impressive,

even the Spanish fans, some impressive skills. He is hoping for

a late call-up. Let's hope the game goes well. It is a fantastic night

for Kiev and the Hall of Ukraine. Where could we not see the kid or

the way through?! I love the official UEFA stats, because

without them, I have trouble getting to sleep, but they do not

help us work hard who will win. This is the fourth time that teams

who have played in the group stage have met in the final, and the

first time that the original game ended in a draw. They also met four

years ago in the quarter-finals. Vienna, June 22nd, 2008, the night

that changed Spanish football forever. Kate Gower goalless draw

with Italy. One newspaper wrote, if it had been a bullfight, the ball

would have died of boredom. For so long, they have found their way to

But they found their way to win. Italy were world champions, the

classic Big Ben performers. Spain had not beaten them competitively

90 minutes came and went, extra time was no better. A talented

Spanish side were not able to break down the Italians. Penalties were

inevitable. Spain had been here before, and had failed. After the

near misses, the matadors at last sensed blood and went for the kill.

Iker Casillas led the way. David de When he converted, the footballing

In many ways, watching Spain is a bit like watching a bullfight, and

eventually, the ball gives up and wanders off. They wear them down.

We have talked about the Spanish in possession, out of position, how

they press quickly, but you do not win as many games and as many

tournaments without the mental strength. You go back to the game

against Portugal, by their standards, for the first 90 minutes,

they were poor, but they found some inner strength to pick themselves

up and play great it extra time, which is the sign of a remarkable

sight. That is without two great players, David Villa and, spoil.

For them to get here again and have the hunger and desire to win

another trophy, remarkable. despite four years ago, Italy tend

By and large, Italy do well against Spain. We are masters when it comes

to tactics, and we know how to face different teams with different

systems. Tonight, they will be running the show most of the time,

they have eight midfielders. They will keep possession. We need to

get as many players behind the ball as soon as we can, but that has

just got to be the starting point. We cannot afford to defend

passively, we need to be active. We need to go forward, when the ball

back and have them when we have two strikers up front against two

defenders. The Portuguese tactics in the semi-final, press them high

up the pitch, and that worked, because it nullified the middle of

You were involved in one of those successes, in 1998. You scored.

was a misfit! It is not always about power, it is about timing and

precision. This is definitely your brother. It has bounced four times

before it hit the net. Ball's He looks better now! Time for a

Spanish few. Rafa Benitez can give The problem with Spain is they have

plenty of possession. You can see the pace of the game, the tempo is

not the same. Some of the key players are getting older. The

style is more or less similar. They tried to go through the middle. Key

players like Xavi and Iniesta on the ball. He is one of the best

players. Vicente had some problems with the strikers at the beginning,

and we Fabregas they have more players in the middle and more

possession. It is fine for them. Maybe because of with Messi at

Barcelona they were doing the same. But it has gone well. He knows the

players, he sees them training. If he decides to do this, it is

because he is watching the players and thinks it is the best option.

Prandelli was doing well because the first game, they played with

three at the back and three midfielders. They could see the

danger of Spain in the middle and the main thing was the position of

De Rossi. He is a midfielder playing as a centre-back in this

game. Everybody was worried about Pirlo, but De Rossi was kicking the

ball long for Balotelli and Cassano and that is one of the problems for

Spain. In the end they were playing two grip against two in defence.

Italy's game plan was good. If Spain attack through the wide areas,

two players against one, they will have a chance. But they play with

Silva or Iniesta or, they like to go inside. It is something that del

Bosque can manage with Navas on the right and Arbeloa, or maybe Pedrosa

and Jordi Alba. He will not change the tactics all the time. He has a

lot of experience as a player and a manager. The main thing is he is

trying to give confidence to There is suddenly a sense that

perhaps Spain are not as interesting as they once were,

Arsene Wenger has said today that the thing with Spain is that they

don't keep the ball to attack, they keep the ball not to lose. Do you

subscribe to that? The movement is slower, they are not as potent as

they used to be. They had three strikers up front before. To me,

they are magnificent to watch, but they play it too much, they could

be more direct. Over the years that I played the game and I have

watched the game, I don't think I have seen a side so poor in

possession for 90 minutes and then come out in extra time and be so

come out in extra time and be so magnificent. Against Portugal?

Iniesta gave it away. And then Alonso jabs that that. Alonso under

hit this and in the second half they were so poor, it was beyond

belief. All of a sudden, they press you quickly and how good is this?

This is sensational. Talk about building play from the back. As

Good As It gets. That is what we saw for the 30 minutes of extra-

time. The next one is equally good. Three against one. They just play

it and pass it. It is so comfortable, so composed. It is

just easy. They keep looking... Portuguese can't get near it. The

last one is a bit quicker. It is absolutely brilliant. Alonso, into

feet, played back, and then Jordi Alba is away. For 30 minutes in

extra time, if they had played like extra time, if they had played like

that from the start, you would say they would be certain to win this

game tonight. They have never changed the way they play, it is

when the opposition gets tired. Have teams worked out how to play

against them? Yes, but it is too tiring. Eventually their style

becomes very effective, maybe at the end of the game. I have the

utmost respect for Spain, I like the Spanish players a lot, they

have a wonderful attitude. It seems like they're having a great time.

He has been their best player, Iniesta. He had a magnificent World

Cup in 2010. In this tournament, even though he hasn't been out of

this world, he has been very good. They are all big stars, but you do

not see any egos. They are all going in the same direction, they

want the same goal, which is to win the tournament. The majority of

them have had a taste of success and then you want more and more.

They haven't hit the dizzy heights of 2010, but this could be the

night. You may have noticed that during the penalties against

Portugal, Cesc Fabregas was talking to the ball. He has also been

talking to the media. Four years ago I talked to the ball and it did

not let me down so I tried to talk to it again four years later and

again it did not let me down. in the final? Her whether it had to

be, it had to be, and in this case it is Italy, they are a great side.

We played against them in the opening game and it was very tough.

They are very experienced at the back and the front. They have play

as who dominated Italy during the whole season, playing for Juventus

and Milan and Inter Milan. They have a lot of variety as well. They

have players who are very strong, like Balotelli, and then good

players like Cassano and Di Natale. Then they have special players like

Pirlo, Marchisio has done really well this season and this

tournament. It will be a really tough one and I think the winner of

this game will be the real champion. It will be well deserved for both

of us to win this tournament because I think we have been the

most consistent two teams in the tournament. There's Fabregas

warming up at the Olympic Stadium. In many ways, they are playing the

sort of system Barcelona played and he has now been given the Messi

role, if that is possible. Spain is missing a player like Messi. When

the opponents are crowding the last 30 yards of the pitch, you need

somebody like Messi capable of going through the defence. Fabregas

is a modern midfielder. He can play in any position, he is very

effective, or whether creating or scoring. He represents the Spanish

players very well because he is neither arrogant or nasty, he is

very humble and I like that attitude. What about this system of

malting midfielders? Everyone has to be so comfortable with the

football and keeping possession and happy to receive it under pressure

happy to receive it under pressure and every single one of that

Spanish team will be. We have seen a unique situation where there's no

direct centre-forward. When it Busquets or Xavi or Alonso get the

ball, there's no centre-forward. Normally you would see a centre-

forward with his back to goal trying to help the midfielders, but

they are content to pass it and try to be patient and open teams up. If

they need to go back to the goalkeeper, so be it. Normally a

midfielder will initially look for the centre forward. There's no one

there. They will come back across, it comes to Busquets, they are

comfortable. That defence has no one to mark, there is no one

running in behind them and no one in front. But when you play the

system, when you get into a position like this, Jordi Alba, you

have to have somebody like Alonso or Fabregas attacking the ball. A

beautiful little ball from Silva, we have highlighted Fabregas, and

he wants to get into the box. There's no Torres or villa. What

advantage is there to not playing an out and out centre-forward?

are still winning extract it is difficult for a centre-half to play

without and the mediant opponent? The whole concept of defending

hasn't changed. If there's one attacker, you need two defenders.

If you're playing six in the middle of the park and you have a flat

back four, you are missing out back four, you are missing out

somewhere else and that is in the middle so you get out numbered.

Fabregas, it is such a hard role to play, to get between the defence

and midfield. Italy's brand of football at this tournament is

popular all over Europe. There's a sentence I never thought I would

say! Especially after the debacle It is Paraguay 1-0 in the lead.

What a shock this is. It is in! Italy are finally back into the

Would you believe it? New Zealand in front! The reigning champions

are behind to the team ranked 78 in the world. Penalty! 1-1. The

Slovakia are 1-0 ahead. The world champions are in trouble. It is

two! Di Natale! Italy are back in it. It is a third goal. Surely

there's no way Italy can score twice. Italy are going to take this

right to the wire. Italy, the world champions, are beaten and the truth

These are the scenes outside the Olympic Stadium. The capital of

Ukraine, Kiev. A beautiful day, beautiful evening, all set fair for

the perfect final. Talking of the Italians, Johan Cruyff once said

they can't beat you, but you can lose against them. I think I know

what he means. Those days have changed. A much more refreshing

Italian team. It is down to Prandelli. I think he is a bit like

Galileo, a visionary. He said he wants to change our mentality and

we thought he was crazy, but he did. Now we play very entertaining

football, sexy football. We are still getting results. I sincerely

hope this gentle revolution spreads around our system, Italian football,

all the way down to the grassroots. They have come a long way in two

years,... Unexpectedly. I think he always stuck to his principles. He

plays four midfielders, four central midfielders, one of them

being Pirlo, which helps a lot. Everyone has been magnificent.

Prandelli is the one that uses the players, chooses the system, makes

decisions. A lot of the guys he has brought in, they have been his guys.

Buffon and Pirlo hardly played two years ago. Balotelli, Cassano, all

of the decisions he has made seem to be working. Against the Germans

they were phenomenal. We outclassed them. That was probably the first

time. He didn't play either in 2010. Not a bad keeper! If he stands like

that the whole game, he's in trouble! He is very good in goal.

He has got the right personality. Before the match, he always says

the right thing. That shot of Buffon was recorded slightly

because just behind us, the closing ceremony is getting under way. It

promises to be quite a spectacle. Already the picture -- pitch has

changed colour. The youngsters of Ukraine have given us so much in

this tournament. If you would like to see more of it, it is currently

available on the red button and on the BBC website. If you prefer to

watch the closing Merrick -- ceremony to listening to our drivel,

Italy's hero in the semi-final was Mario Balotelli. He's called two

cracking goals, kissed his mum in public and now everybody loves him.

Almost everyone. Dan Walker certainly does.

A riddle wrapped in a mystery Winston Churchill never met Mario

Balotelli. If he had, he might have had to think of a few more

adjectives. Mario is still only 21. Tender age juxtaposed the sheer

power of personality. But the power has been needed. As a child, he

suffered serious illness. This, coupled with a tough social

situation for his immigrant parents, led to a life of Foster care from

the age of three. A tough start. Football was all he had for his

future. Signed by Inter Milan, he spent three years there, winning

three league titles and the Champions League. But clashes with

the other special one meant it was a turbulent time, despite his

success. It was also the problem of racism in the stands. He became an

Italian cities and the day after his 18th birthday, and an

international call-up followed soon after. The Italians now have a

different kind of hero. Mario Balotelli is the first black player

to represent his country as a major tournament, the first black Italian

to score at a major tournament. But some of the press back home still

do not seem to get it. Even now. Roberto Mancini brought him to

Manchester. Fireworks on and off the pitch. Trouble following wind,

always follow wind. But at the end, Now, Euro 2012, the latest in a

line of heroes, the hour and the man may just have met.

Everybody is talking about him, still criticism about his demeanour

and his attitude, but should ring not be celebrating the fact that he

has come over so many difficulties to perform on the stage? It was not

easy to be him, growing up in Italy, with the problems. He is only 21,

so he is not mature debt. He is making mistakes. Now, he is finally

becoming a man. He came into the tournament a boy, and he might

leave a man, that is how exciting he has been. He is 1 goal short of

becoming Italy's highest scorer in this tournament. He has had the

most shots on target of any player in the tournament, 17 goals for

Manchester City, three Serie A titles and one Champions League,

the Premier League and FA Cup, just 21, why are you so critical? I have

always had admiration for him! The truly great players, it is not

about one game, one sees it... is 21. The great players have got

palate, ability, mental strength, but the biggest thing, reliability.

He has got two of the four. If he scores a hat-trick tonight, that is

fine, if he scores 10 hat-tricks in the Premier League next season, I

will say you were right. I look forward to that! He has done

nothing in his career, that is what you said. In his international

career, he had done hardly anything. He has got an unbelievable

opportunity to say, I appear to stick around. He has got a great

chance to finish as top scorer, and I love the way he links up with

Antonio Cassano. They are working together, as a partnership, looking

after each other. They bullied at the German centre-halves. Le Cap

Mario Balotelli's movement. What happens if the goalkeeper spills

it? This is a great pass from Mario Balotelli. Riccardo Montolivo

should have a shot. It is great play. They have gone from one end

of the pitch... Of two in the last third. Giorgio Chiellini plays the

past, and Mario Balotelli's movement, because he wants the head

of more than the defender, he gets it and he wants to score the goal.

Mario Balotelli knows that, he is waiting for it. That is the sign of

an excellent partnership. Two players left upfield. Not many

players will -- not many teams will do that. Mario Balotelli in the

middle goes longer. Again, what a ball from Riccardo Montolivo. It is

an amazing run from Mario Balotelli. His runs have been brilliant. Going

short or long,... He does that very well. I love this finish. He is

full of confidence, and he smashes it into the net. The story about

Antonio Cassano, you will often see him going off after 60 minutes,

because in November, he had a stroke, and he only came back in

April. To achieve what he has done, brilliant. Mario Balotelli in

contention for the Golden Boot. Antonio Cassano is a reliable

genius, he loves playing of the French striker, going past

defenders, and he feeds the striker with passes that nobody can say. It

is a pity he is not fully fit. never, never know what you Opera to

get with Mario Balotelli. -- what you are coming to get. That is not

a team player. Lots of players on free goals. Mario Gomez is top,

because he has got one assist, because that is the secondary think

you look. Is this an assist?! He has a shot... A brilliant touch!

That is one of yours! Showed that none of the players in contention

this evening score, Mario Gomez get it because of that. I will go for

Spain. I do not hope that the best team wins tonight, let's put it

that way! Keep an eye on Claudio Marchisio. I wanted to be at a long

night, but I will go for Spain, just. We started with 16 teams, we

are now down to two, but whose name will be on the trophy? Italy or

With domineering hand, she missed the turning wheel. Like currants in

a treacherous Bass swept to and fro. The ruthless world has just deposed

once fearful Keynes. Wellcome Trust must still, from low she lifts a

The cries of misery she hears, no tears she heeds. But steely hearted

laughs her front. Such is the game she plays, and show she tests her

strength. Of mighty power she makes parade during one short hour. From

Balotelli! Fernando Torres caused! Antonio di Natale! It is Cesc

The opening ceremony is reaching its conclusion. It in the closing

ceremony, of course! Italy against Spain in the final of Euro 2012.

What can we anticipate? So much drama to come, so many great

players. Your commentators here in the Olympic Stadium, Mark Lawrenson

game of what has been a terrific tournament. We are back to where we

were three weeks ago today, 1-1 in the Gdansk, one of the best of the

opening round of matches, and now they meet again. Two countries

whose people are probably fed up with hearing the word Euro, and its

financial gloom and uncertain economic futures. At least Euro

2012 has provided occasional respite Four Nations where football

means so much. In Spain, they would have expected nothing less than

being into my's final. This is a team on the verge of true greatness,

just one game away from an unprecedented three and a row of

European and world triumphs. For Italy, it is the culmination of

Cesare Prandelli's work in transforming a team that was on its

knees. They fail to get out of the group as defending champions at the

last World Cup. It is a team that has become the Italy of smiles. One

more huge historic effort tonight and they would be as wide as the

River Tiber. This is the worst part, for the players who have given so

much to get to the final. The waiting. Having to hang on. Keep

the muscles loose, keep the tension at bay. But you can see it and feel

it. You can almost hear it around the stadium. When the call finally

comes, the captains, goalkeepers both, Gianluigi Buffon and Iker

Casillas, two of the greats of the game, you will be pushed to find

two more experienced players anywhere in the world, and they now

lead their nations out, hoping that when they make their way back down

at the end of the match that they we settle for the national anthems,

presented by Tamara Khodakova and McCart Willerby -- Mykhailo

Humenniy. They are from the Kiev municipal academic Opera and Ballet

# Fratelli d'Italia. # L'Italia s'e desta.

# Dell'elmo di Scipio. # S'e cinta la testa.

# Dov'e la vittoria? # Le porga la chioma.

# Che schiava di Roma. # Fratelli d'Italia.

# L'Italia s'e desta. # Dell'elmo di Scipio.

# S'e cinta la testa. # Dov'e la vittoria?

# Le porga la chioma. # Che schiava di Roma.

# Iddio la creo. # Stringiamoci a coorte.

# Siam pronti alla morte. # Italia chiamo.

# Stringiamoci a coorte. # Siam pronti alla morte.

Apology for the loss of subtitles for 67 seconds

called the brothers of Italy. How needed, it has become such a

familiar tune to hear at major right around the stadium. The

defending champions make one change. Fabregas in for Negredo. Spain have

no one considered the natural striker. Six Barcelona players,

four from Real Madrid and one from double of Champions League and

World Cup final. The same for tonight's referee. In charge of

Chelsea's win in Munich in May and of Italy's over England at this

house won the toss. -- has won. Italy have Abate back to full

fitness and in at right-back having missed the semi-final. That means

Balzaretti drops to the bench. The rest of the defence is unchanged

and or Juventus. Up front, the same line-up as against England and

Germany. Pirlo pulling the strings footballer in the 21st century.

Hair clips in place, eyes focused and concentrated. A full complement

of substitutes available. A lot of attacking talent on the bench if

needed. Let's hope we get an attacking match right from the

start. Andres Iniesta, the man who won the World Cup with his goal in

Johannesburg two years ago. Balotelli, the man who fired it to

Countdown from 10. And after the final countdown, Europe is ready to

crown its champion team. Away we go in Kiev for the final of Euro 2012.

Spain against Italy. It promises much. A splash of Mediterranean

style with a lashing of Italian passion. Will it be Spain to retain

their trophy? No team has ever managed to win the Henri Delaunay

Trophy in two successive tournaments. Can it to the Crown a

remarkable rise? I don't think anybody expected them to be here.

No. The interesting thing from Spain's point of view, you could

argue they have six midfielders on view so it should be enough to take

care of Pirlo, just about. Vicente del Bosque maintains it is always

night, Cassano. He was really, really good. A good role model --

model for Cassano. He used to get headlines for the wrong reasons,

but he has settled down and he has been a perfect foil for Marriott in

this competition. If there is such off! A wry smile beneath a

moustache on the face of Vicente was Luis Aragones's side that won

Euro 2008. He has not done badly since! He has won everything in the

game. Two Champions Leagues and two of Abate's face. We will have to

give him the benefit of the doubt. Look how wide Chiellini is already

for Italy. He was a real get out the other night against Germany.

Almost playing as a left-sided play it as they have done all

I think Ramos is down. He is trying to persuade the referee it was a

poor tackle by Balotelli. He is up time Spain beat Italy, 1-0, in

March 2008. It was decided by a volley from David Villa. David

Villa is here tonight along with Carles Puyol, two who would have

been in the squad but for bad injuries. They were invited by del

Bosque to be part of the squad they the left. -- Cassano. There's a bit

of a reaction from Balotelli. Ramos did not flinch. It is that ball

again in between the two centre- backs. How many times have we seen

that in this competition? Look at this. I don't think we rolled on

Ramos. More than anybody else. A Real Madrid record 11 red cards in

orthodox striker. I think this is a really good tackle by De Rossi. He

has got the ball! It is one of those that is deemed reckless and

not in control of himself. Right. Even though he got the ball. There

they are. David Villa and Carles touch of finesse. His penalty in

the shoot-out against Portugal his performances at left-back.

Iniesta never does anything but think Spain did lack a striker then.

The boys in the studio will be saying what a ball that would have

been to a centre forward. What a certainly involved. I think he got

too much on it. He had a free run at the ball. Chiellini arrived a

little bit late to put him off properly. Maybe he did enough.

Jordi Alba it is a willing runner Prandelli is organising and

constantly giving out a message to his players. A contrast in styles

with del Bosque, hands in pockets, against Italy. Spain don't beat

Italy. It is like the Italian record against the Germans,

traditionally. Italy have won 3, drawn four and Spain only one won

on penalties for years ago. Miroslav Klose admitted in the week

that he thinks it was in the back of the mind of one or two German

players, the record against Italy. I don't think Spain players think

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much. They are shooting on sight tonight. Great play. Great

against when it is played so quickly. Buffon was clutching thin

air! Less than a ball's width over the bar. A bright bit of play from

Spain. Where do you stand on the debate that has sprung up during

this tournament that their brilliance has become boring?

little bit. They have missed the idea of football, which is to score

a lot of goals and entertain, as well as win. They look in the mood

tonight. They certainly do. We have fouled. Don't blow the whistle!

Montolivo hasn't got up, that is why we have a stoppage. Until now.

They have had to weather a Spanish gold. Can they get out and work it

themselves? Xabi Alonso came out to get close to Andrea Pirlo. He had

to do a lot of moving to get the there is plenty of attacking being

done. There is lots of movement and lots of options, which is the key.

It is difficult for Italy to defend against it. If you back 18 to

defend against anything, it would be an Italian team. They push up

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heading to the Premier League, but the goal has been comment. His

second of Euro 2012. It is the first in the final. The Italians

cannot cope with the pace and movement. Absolutely brilliant. He

just got himself in front of his man. Once they see the past, it is

great, inside the full-back. The movement, band. Brilliant. It was

great work from Cesc Fabregas. David Silva cushioned it, he got

the control with his header. Spanish joy. It is what they

deserve, they have made a great start to the game. What sort of a

response have Italy got? Mario Balotelli has got a free kick.

There was an element of buying it. Is that a foul? The referee has

given it. It will be a foul, then! That will be the fence I am sitting

on! In the history of this tournament, 18 has only come behind

to win the final three times. Most recently, France did it to Italy in

2000. Throughout the competition, we have seen that this is a band of

brothers' plane for the fishery. Andrea Pirlo scared -- scored from

wall to get Italy a corner. He will glove on the ball. The whistle has

gone. I think it just came off the back. It was just a fingertip.

Daniele de Rossi was flying again, a little too vigorously, actually.

He passed the ball before it came. It is the first time that Italy

going to be a corner. Sergio Busquets fell a long way, an

awkward landing as well. I think he the bar. The Italian bombardment

will continue. Giorgio Chiellini thought he might be on the end of

the crowd, but it was just too high for him. You do not want to give

the Spanish the ball back when they are in the lead. It is an

interesting debate amongst many for tonight, who is the better

goalkeeper. 186 caps for the Spanish goalkeeper, 119 for the

Italian. They both have won the World Cup. Finally divorce has been

struggling with a sciatic nerve problem throughout the tournament -

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- Daniele de Rossi. He takes the front of the defender. Cesc

Fabregas seems to enjoy the front- It was well read by the Italians.

Giorgio Chiellini is struggling. It was a great tackle from Andrea

Pirlo. He just does the same thing and get it out, because Giorgio

Chiellini has got a problem. It is his left knee. That was a good

tackle. They are going to make the change it straight away. Cesare

Prandelli is not hanging around. Here you instantly. They do have a

ready-made replacement in Federico Balzaretti, who was unlucky not to

play tonight. He played right-back in the semi-final. He did sterling

work out of position. The bonus for him, but a blow for Giorgio

Chiellini. His final ends after 20 minutes. I just wonder whether

fitness will be a consideration for Italy. It is their third game in a

week. We thought that against the Germans, though. Spain have had

more of a relaxing schedule. They got to Kiev earlier, Italy did not

arrive until 3am yesterday. Most of the training and studying of Spain

have been via video. But they will know all about Spain. Why were they

but a goal kick is given. Andrea Pirlo will struggle to get too much

of double. -- the ball. If it becomes a factor against Spain more

than any other team... You spend so much time chasing the ball, you are

shattered once you get it. Technically, they have got six

midfield players gunman and they swarm, they win the ball back very

quickly. Boring, apparently. Yes. do get that document,... I am

delighted for you! You cannot of you with the brilliance of the

players, though. Andrea Pirlo is under pressure, no other team has

done that. The Spanish are making the Italians play with their heads

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down. Andrea Pirlo will not play playing, they are getting people

between the lines. I am not sure about the way he went into that

tackle. Vicente del Bosque des is protesting at, but it is the way he

went into it. The bit risky from Gerard Pique. Just a touch. I am

not sure he touched Antonio Cassano. He did not. Still... You do not see

Vicente del Bosque that animated that often. He is more worried that

he has got to be careful now, with a booking. I never saw Vicente del

Bosque play, 18 caps for Spain, a defensive midfielder, I imagine he

was that kind of player. Did he not play against Liverpool? Paris, the

European Cup final. That was 1980. And Cesare Prandelli played against

Liverpool, he came on as a go backwards, Italy. It is great

Mario Balotelli, he was poised to head home the equaliser. Iker

Casillas did extremely well. It was not a great touch, and he gets

lucky, it comes off the full back. But it was a much better cross.

That is what each has a rate -- that is what Federico Balzaretti

will give to Italy. Because David Silva is playing on the right of

the front three, he wants to tuck in, so there will always be space

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Casillas did well to stop that because it came through two pairs

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was a little bit strange, that. little flat by a Pirlo, of all

people. In the build-up to the game, the whole of Italy going crazy, and

Pirlo said, get into the final and not winning is like going to Rome

and not seeing the Pope. I have that meant for me? And it is a bit

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of a waste when you are not have up yet. Picked out before as a

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was not expecting the ball but it gone up. It is all part of the game,

guessing the when and where the past is going. The way the Spanish

recycle the ball all the time. In between the lines, as it were. It

is just outstanding. Spain are still leading by that Silva goal.

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Some great work by Fabregas said confidence, 23 years old. We saw

his Spain debut against Scotland in October and he was good then.

was outstanding at night. -- that night. Spain are putting themselves

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not quite the same effect as he actually. And he should be full of

confidence. When you think about that only game against Spain. For

some reason he just put the brakes free-kick for Spain. Balzaretti

putting his weight on to David Italy's main mission will be to

make sure they are only one behind at the break. Anything else will be

a shrewd tactician. A bit of reorganisation, a few wise words at

are more red shirts on the field. at chasing the ball? Ferry. Jordi

Alba busting a gut! Spain have 82-0 Spanish pass! It is a long way back

for Italy from here. Jordi Alba has his first senior international goal

and it was a thing of beauty! Football does not get much better

than that. The pace that he picked up with that run, Jordi Alba, was

amazing and as you would expect, timing, the Finnish, it was all

just so right. Yeah, brilliant. That is the reason why Barcelona

have paid 40 million Euros to Valencia to make him a part of the

Barcelona tried for next season. when the left-back scores goals

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have a go. It is whether there is handle. He has used the pace on the

Barzagli. It is just a yellow. It was like the Italians are fault, I

have got to take him out. He did not have too many options.

taken for the team, because had Andres Iniesta got past him, Cesc

Fabregas was in the middle, and are more trophies to be one for him.

They are halfway to within one So was that clearance. He tried to

hit it up the field early. You had the Italians do not lose their

discipline. -- you hope. One minute to be added on at the end of the

first half that has belonged to Spain. We have talked about Andrea

Pirlo, but the Spanish performance from the defending world and

European champions. They are embracing each other on the bench.

The feeling is Spain are just about there, and what I find he has been,

Jordi Alba, the left-back, with a scintillating second goal, after

David Silva headed the first. Four years ago, they lead against

Germany in the final, and here, they have doubled their money. It

is a forlorn looking bunch of Italians who troop off to receive

words of wisdom from Cesare They truly exhilarating display

from the world and European champions. There are three of us in

this studio, but I have concerns that the time of the centre-forward

is over! We have seen a masterclass of how to keep hold of the ball,

how to pass it. Italy are playing a flat back four, a diamond in

midfield, Spain have got no forwards, but they are getting time

and time again down the left-hand side, because there are so -- there

is so much space. It is great to see. For people to even suggest

that Spain of boring is laughable, because it is amazing to watch.

am not quite sure you are enjoying this! It is painful for me to watch.

So far, it has been a great game, two sides having a goat at each

other. We do not put the same as we have been in the tournament. First

of all, they are simply an awesome team, we have got to admit that.

Secondly, they have found a way to neutralise Andrea Pirlo, and so we

are struggling. Thirdly, we looked tired. All of the injuries, all of

the travelling, all of the games played so far, with a huge mental

effort, they have finally taken their toll. One day less stressed.

For the neutral, in wonderful example of football. I have never

seen anything as good, sustained periods where they were picking it

up and playing at pace. When they played the 6 Midfield players and

no strikers, they passed poorly, but when they pass it in that

manner, it does not matter how they play. The interchange, the pace, I

have never seen the like of that in my life, it was that good.

Breathtaking at times. It is 70 matches since Spain lost since they

have taken the lead, and you can see why, because it is so hard to

get the ball off them. It will be complicated for us to get back into

the game. But sometimes, it takes one moment of brilliance to change

the game around. Greedy to change the way they are thinking. -- we

need to change. Do something special, get one goal, make them

think differently, you never know. The one criticism you can level at

Spain, they do not get enough players in the box, and we saw

examples of that before the goal. In the first 10 minutes, we were

screaming, because it was a great run by Jordi Alba down the left-

hand side. We watch David Silva, he should be working harder to get

into the box. That is a great pass and a great ball in. Nobody in

there. It is too late. The defender clears it away. But if they do not

get you the first time, they will get you the second time. Andres

Iniesta is the best player on the picture. Not only have the Spanish

played well, they have nullified Andrea Pirlo. They have made him go

back to what his own goal. Some incredible football for the goal. A

brilliant piece of finishing. pick it up and played with

consummate ease. I have always got options and alternative options.

Look at how many men the Italians have got behind the ball. It is

difficult to get through that. at Cesc Fabregas's body position.

He is side on, he wants the ball between the centre halves.

Magnificent. David Silva is in there this time. He has realised

his mistake. I did not like the defendant from Leonardo Bonucci.

has got to see that. Yes, and stay with him. It is all white people

saying that... There are two reasons why a Andrea Pirlo is not

playing, they are closing come down, and when he does have the ball, he

is so tired, because they have worked hard to get it back. Lots of

examples of breathtaking Spanish football. Yes, especially the

second goal. We are defending too high. We are taking some chances

now, because we are down. We are pressing them high, and we are

leaving space behind the defenders. We are not covering particularly

well. Andrea Barzagli should have stayed with the runner. When you

are playing a flat back four against nobody... Look at how many

spare men they have got. Nobody picks him up, because you were

waiting for him to pick him up, and it Jordi Alba has made a great run.

They has been one of the players of the tournament. He has just signed

for Barcelona. Some terrific reactions from the Spanish

supporters in Madrid. These are the scenes for the goal. Yes! Mass

jubilation. It must be wonderful for them! Not a hint of jealousy

from any of us! Technical ability at its very best. I have never seen

anything like it. It is wonderful. You are seeing the best team ever

here. Brazil, West Germany... No team has ever done this.

Brazilians in 1970... No team has ever won three major tournaments.

Normally, you played the worst in the final, because you are tired,

but they have been in disguise so far. Are they wild by people saying

they are boring? I think they just play their game. Look at this, how

good is that? They never change, they just keep played, they work

very hard for each other. They are so far in front of everybody in

terms of passing and defend, you watch... Because we are tired, we

always arrive half a second too late in closing them down, and

therefore, with their ability, you end up in trouble. That is an

excuse! It is a joy to watch, absolutely. We have had two goals,

Pavlyuchenko. And still going. Pavlyuchenko! The substitute

opportunities and perhaps danger in equal measure. What a goal!

Blaszczykowski! And the host nation celebrates in every corner of the

The flag stayed down and Germany lead! Mario Gomez gets his second

midfield metronome scores with a superb, precise finish. That's how

Carroll to get there! The plan's worked! Gerrard to Carroll, England

Vaart! Brilliant! Just the start that the Netherlands needed. It is

Brilliant! Absolutely brilliant! Ibrahimovic, golden boy of Swedish

football, has finally answered his struggling, but got two strong

hands to it. Montolivo. Through for Balotelli, he was onside when the

ball was played. Can Balotelli get a double? He can! That is smashed

in. Magical Mario Balotelli. This That is the list of them. No

competition, just a little bit of sun. Gentlemen, your decision?

Camel and Ibrahimovic. Ibrahimovic for me. -- Andy Carroll.

technique was sensational. Such a Ibrahimovic's eyes are always on

the ball. Wimbledon is halfway through, Euro 2012 is almost over,

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that means the Olympics is just It is very close, it should be very

special. A reminder that Andy Murray is in action against Marin

Cilic at Wimbledon tomorrow. Coverage starts at 11:30am on BBC

Two. Next Sunday, Jake Humphrey will be at Silverstone, also on BBC

One. The one thing that Spain have done, they have neutralised Pirlo,

who has been so magnificent in the tournament. How? They have just

pressed him. They have got to him quickly and sometimes in numbers.

What can you do in this position? There were three around him, they

forced Pirlo backwards. But when I see Pirlo, I can't help thinking

about Beethoven when he composes his symphony, but not tonight.

Tonight he is quite slow. He has been surrounded by many opponents

and he is struggling a bit. Would you believe that coming up, I think

somewhere is the tackle on Iniesta, this one. That is his best bit of

the game! Can you believe it? It is inch-perfect. I think he has got

frustrated. If the Italians are going to get back into it, they

have to get Pirlo back on the ball, but further up the pitch. Hopefully

we will not have to make any more forced changes. I think Cassano

will go off and probably Di Natale will take his place. They need to

stop Balotelli as well. It would be nice to continue to see the Spanish

being offences -- offences. Another 45 minutes of the same would be

Natale. Di Natale gave it elite the lead in Gdansk when these sides met

re weeks ago. -- gave Italy the scoring first in September 2006

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when Northern Ireland beat them in di Natale's first touch of the

ball! If the best move of the game for Italy as well, a real chance.

Minimum requirement: Hits the target. He is the most prolific of

the Italy strikers in terms of club football over the last few seasons.

29 for Udinese. He has scored 86 goals over the last three campaigns.

He hasn't quite hit the net quite as regularly when wearing blue for

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Balzaretti has now brought down Arbeloa, Spanish free kick. Great

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real contest, has to be from Italy. cross to the referee, saying hand

ball. Handball, all right. It was, with your hands in all honesty

there. His arm has not moved. but he is in that position where it

is positioned well to save it. what on earth are you supposed to

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That ball started the move from that! No chance, he just went into

has stretched the game is now. -- first one was brilliantly stopped

by Casillas but the second one was simple! The problem was the Spanish

had stopped, they thought it was offside! The man they call St Iker

in goal! You get past the line of defenders and you still have him to

Spain have kept an incredible nine successive clean sheets in knockout

games in tournaments. They have not let a single goal in since Zinedine

Zidane scored against them. Pepe Reina would walk into most

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international teams. Not bad, this once. It just caught him in between

his feet. It is just the way they take and received and are available

for the ball and under all sorts of pressure, it is fantastic. Italy

are hanging on in there. You never know, if they can get one... But

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allowed Gerrard Pique to take little too strong. Almost the ball

is why he is in the team, for those moments as much as anything,

filling in for people. Italy changed. They will bring off

Montolivo, who has not had the effect in this game as in the last

two. The man who will be leaving Fiorentina for Milan in time for

next season. On comes Tiago Motta. He used to play for Barcelona and

Atletico Madrid. An interesting duel if he goes up against Sergio

Busquets. Busquets once got him sent off in the Champions League

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there's not much more Prandelli can Mario Balotelli, but you never know,

a chance taken would liven him up. Pirlo to try to be the creator

Here comes a Spanish change. They are taking off David Silva, who has

been substituted in every game apart from the game against Ireland.

Chatting to himself. He started it tonight, thanks to Fabregas. A

brilliant header. A really tough one to control, but he did it and

he gave Spain the lead. He is taking ages to leave the field. He

is not happy about it at all. He is getting a good send-off from the

Spanish supporters. Pedro is going to come on. A little more pace for

the Italian defenders to come up shakes the hand or says anything to

them when they come off. Sit down and get on with it. I get the

feeling you like that. Absolutely, from Alonso and it is a free kick

to Italy. He doesn't mind leaving players out, much to the annoyance

of players like Torres and Fabregas. It is great when you have about 38

players to pick from, though! Llorente, Mata, not kicked a ball

in the championships. He just shoos gone down. Italy have made all

three substitutions. The Spanish could have played on. If the right

hamstring has gone, it is good just Arrie Prandelli and his team

tonight. -- Je Azzurri Prandelli. It looks as though it is a game too

far. He pulled up before the knock. He did indeed. The sniper has had

play against 10 men. I'm not sure that is the case with Spain. Yeah,

right! Give them a bit more room to play. They can already play when it

is tight. He is done, isn't he? would think so, the way he pulled

up. The other thing is, you can't risk him. Himself an Chiellini,

that is really tough for the Italians. Fate is conspiring

against Italy tonight. He is sitting up, he is trying to give a

message that he will have a go. But he just can't do it. The rich

owners of Paris St-Germain, where he plays his football, will think

don't do it. Prandelli now has to work a miracle with 10 players on

the field. When your luck is out, you're lucky is out. Four minutes

after coming on, the third and seen so many medical people around

one player. There must be 40. his hamstring has gone, I'm not

sure 24 of them will be able to sight and he is being helped down

the tunnel. The game is up. Italy have to do it a man light. Already

could be important for them. You never know. We have seen so many

things in football. This would be the most incredible of everything

we have seen. It would be loaves and fishes. Worth watching if it

but it is a free-kick to Spain. thought it might have been the

other way. He has to get up. thinks he was blocked off. Busquets

had his arm across. I'm afraid, Leonardo Bonucci, you have to carry

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flick it on to Iniesta. Handball against Balotelli. For once,

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Iniesta was not in tune with the was the furthest player forward and

he was 35 yards from his own goal! Record-breaking Spanish team might

have another one in its sights, the biggest-ever win in the European

Championship final. 3-0 Germany against the Soviet Union in 1972.

That is well within their reach if they don't want to. You've just

had the feeling from the start that they wanted to tonight. They've

forward and not have to worry about getting back. They can almost play

Balotelli, his work, not just tonight, but ever since that

opening game against Spain when he was not quite with it, he has been

superb. Very, very good. Doesn't necessarily mean a lot, looking

forward to next season, but he has through to the end now. Amazing to

think Real Madrid sacked him as well. After winning the Champions

away from Italian legs. They can't get out of their own half, I'm

getting in the eye line if I could do so last, but it would bother

that Spanish keeper. - the byline Fabregas. That started with a ball

from Casillas, almost like Franz his young career. Not surprising

that he started out as a left- winger. Barcelona let him go after

he started there, they have had to pay 40 million Euros to get him

Alonso... What do you feel as a man steeped in Liverpool about that

decision several years ago to let Xabi Alonso go? Was it a little bit

early? Mystifying, absolutely mystifying. He has come on and he

has played the best football of his career at Real Madrid. Wasn't far

behind at Liverpool, in all honesty. The really top player. -- a really

at Spain now -- can Italy? Buffon is trying to give words of

encouragement. The only encouragement I can think of is

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that Italy have not gone further He made sure it went higher just in

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for Spain and Cesc Fabregas will men, Spain have got to put a

striking into the action. -- a brilliantly for David Silva. He

scored in this tournament against Italy when the teams met in Gdansk.

He scored against Ireland. He has had a very good Euro 2012. Now the

man who won Euro 2008, Fernando Torres. He got the only goal in the

final against Germany. He was only a substitute for Chelsea in the

Champions League final, which was his source of much a millions for

him. A goal now do finally clinched it for Spain, to round off his

career. He was joint top scorer as Torres. This painting of appetite

unit and they will be doing everything they can to give

Fernando Torres a goal opportunity -- this Spanish team are a tight

unit. Iniesta's name is being sung went down a little too easily

though. At least it ended in a miracles to get them this far. They

lost three games in a row before the start of the tournament without

scoring, defeat to Europe right, Russia and the USA. -- defeats to

Uruguay. Those kind of performances seemed to spur them on. Everything

mesmerising attacking forced from spared. He can pretend that he knew

a trophy. 2008, 2010, 2012. Three in a row, barring a miracle from

Italy. We were always bemused that they never did better in the

tournaments. I think the Madrid Barcelona thing was very important

in that. They seemed to come together at the right time.

Certainly. They are at each other's finding Barcelona's Busquets. And

going to pull a muscle as he raced towards that. I think Torres wanted

it on the left side and not on the with this corner. Torres stands to

be one of eight players tonight to have played in two winning European

position has been fifty-fifty but it is whether teams have had the

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ball. It doesn't feel like that. that people say it is boring. Let

me tell you, not if you have in the Spanish connection it is not. --

Do we want them to go hell-for- leather? A goal would be nice,

wouldn't it? Somebody has got to have a run. I don't think it

Every vedette she Italy! -- could buy commit Italy! This Spanish team

has gone up a notch. Great finish. to score in two European

Championship finals. I am sorry, Prandelli, it has just not been

your night. It could get a whole lot worse for the Italians before

the final whistle. Look at the three passes that created the three

record by getting a fourth goal, the highest winning margin in the

European Championship final. would like to see them play the

Brazil 1970 team, wouldn't you. Sadly, time travel is beyond our

capability, but that would be a David Villa amongst others, Spain's

record goalscorer, three injury -- through injury. He is here watching

tonight. Spain will make another change and Mata will get some

action! The Chelsea player, wearing 13 for Spain. He will make his

winner's medal seemed a whole lot more worth it. Andres Iniesta will

on to a great reception. Spain tried to pass their way through to

the final whistle. The best team have won it, it is great. Roman

Abramovich has come to Kiev to see one of his Chelsea men get a goal

and another one get a run out. And think about how many of his Spain

team he would really like to buy! lordly being waved, but they can

feel proud of their efforts in Poland and Ukraine. This has just

been a step too far for them. It has been a question of having to

get themselves up for the game just a few days after that monumental

effort against Germany. And the effort against England with the

have to feel quite a great deal of sympathy for Prandelli. But I'm

afraid there are few teams on the planet, ever, that could have lived

with his Spain's side. Turning into a very good night for the Chelsea

connection. Mario had his night a few days ago. We talked about

passes that create goals. Brilliant. He did not have to look, he just

at Euro 2012-12. -- Euro 2012, to 12. One more to beat their total at

Euro 2008. 4-0. There were many that had a sneaky feeling that

Italy might just nick it, that everything was with them. I'm

afraid all their luck ran out in don't want it to say there are any

added minutes at all! -- Italy want it. They want to pack up, thank the

fans for their support and contemplate how far they have come

at this competition. They have been up against an absolutely rampant

Spanish team. There will be three more minutes for Italy to endured

Spanish players, looking to pick out a pass to score yet another

somebody sat very close to me. Just had confirmation that as it stands,

Torres, on three goals for the tournament, will get the Golden

Boot. He has three goals and an assist, like Mario Gomez of Germany,

but he has played less minutes than the German did. It is Fernando's

might as way -- might as well pay your team-mates the respect of

watching it! How on earth will we get back into this team? I think

effort from Sergio Ramos followed neutral. You sort of want to get --

Spain to get five or six, but you don't want it to me to suffer any

more. No. -- Italy. The glory boys are ready to celebrate. David Silva,

Jordi Alba, Fernando Torres and is Spain again. European

Championship, World Cup, European Championship. It is a perfect

treble that has never been done before, with a team playing For --

perfect football like we've never seen before. It wins trophy after

seen before. It wins trophy after trophy for Spain. It has made

legends of these players. Italy have worked, they've given it

everything, they were forced down to 10 players through injury

tonight. It was just one game too far for one more Herculean effort

and they have been pulled apart, all over the place, by the greatest

STUDIO: Not to be for Italy. Spain become the first team to retain the

European Championship, the first team to win three major trophies

back to back to back and they are the first team to win a major final,

ever, by four goals. They have still not conceded a goal in

knockout football in nearly 1,000 minutes, since Zinedine Zidane

scored against them in the 2006 World Cup. The players celebrate a

truly phenomenal achievement by an astonishingly talented side. What a

wonderful performance. You run out of superlatives. The Italians had a

go in the second half and Cassano missed a couple of chances, but

went -- once the Italians went to 10 men, it was like an exhibition

match. But the first half, people will be talking about this first

half in 40 years' time. All the way through the tournament, we talked

about the Spanish being the best team ever in possession. There's no

argument now. That first half performance was superlative. A word

on the Italians, they fought hard and gave everything, but they were

outclassed. Yes, they were tonight. This tournament has proven we are

the most improved side in Europe. But this final has proven we are

not there yet. Spain are in a league of their own, basically.

Tonight they show you'd how magnificent they are. They deserved

to win. I'm quite surprised the engraver was still itching Spain on

to that trophy, it was over some time ago. It was. It was a game too

far for the Italians. They've been impressive throughout the

tournament, but they have met the team today in a league of their own.

There's no one that can come close to them. Di Natale missed a couple

of chances early in the second half and then Motta came on and went

back off injured again. It was a matter of how many they were going

to get, Spain. People throughout the tournament have asked one or

two questions because of the system they play. Do they score enough

goals? It is an emphatic yes. They have scored more goals than anyone

and conceded less. It is incredible to watch, it really is. It is a

nightmare to play against because at times, there's not many answers.

Just great to watch and to be here to see such a magnificent

performance. We've said before, not only are they did in possession and

with technical ability, they are better than anything we have seen,

but also they work so hard. If you look at Pirlo's performance in this

game, he has been the star of the tournament, but he hardly had a

kick and that was due to the pressing of the Spanish players.

lovely shot of Fernando Torres with his children. He will surely be

able to show them a Golden Boot! He has achieved that despite being a

bit-part player in many ways for Spain. He scored two against

Ireland, his other goal was this Ireland, his other goal was this

one, this clinched it. It didn't quite clinch it... This was Pirlo

in possession. They gave it away cheaply. Fernando got on to it

quickly and it is a very, very competent finish. As soon as Italy

went down to 10 men, you could just see Torres itching to get on. He

knew there would be goals around for him if he could get on quickly

enough. That was an excellent finish. I think this performance,

this result, should not take anything away from Italy. I agree.

In this tournament, we've reminded ourselves that we can also be a

brave side, a United side, a very hard-working side, very smart, and

I'm not just talking about football. It is great to see that these

players have been able to give people in my country something to

cheer about, something to be proud of, because it is a very difficult

time. Fantastic! The Spanish players are getting even smaller!

She's very good in possession, I'm told. Wonderful. What is

astonishing is how much desire they have for winning. What a cute kid!

What a player he is. We have gone through Xavi, Iniesta, Busquets,

Torres, Fabregas, but there's one guy we have not mentioned, del

Bosque. He has changed one or two things in this tournament and one

or two questions were asked. He came up with the right answer. They

are going home with the trivia well -- again. A fantastic team. It also

helps if you have a great goalkeeper. She knows the camera

when she sees one! A wonderful all- round team performance. The word on

Torres from you, Alan, as a former striker. Three goals, a low total

to win a Golden Boot. In a strange way, it has been a frustrating

tournament for him because he has been a bit-part player. Probably

would not have liked sitting on the bench. When he has been asked to do

a job, he has come in and scored goals. He has played well. He got

two against the Irish, one tonight. He has played a big enough part.

This is the first European Championship with a creche! Tears

for the Italians, but they were well beaten in the end. It is not

like they have lost a dramatic penalty shoot-out. Tonight was just

a matter of playing against a team which is still too strong for us,

but also so much time... Are I'm very pleased Balotelli has come

back on. He stormed off in a rage, it is good that he has come back

out. It is very important to be there to take it on the chin and

there to take it on the chin and there to take it on the chin and

also to recognise that Spain truly deserved to win. The Italians gave

it their best shot, but the Spanish were miles in front of them. They

are getting ready for the Balotelli it was in contention for

the Golden Boot. He just needed one strike. This was him at the end.

What do you make of that? He is petulant. He is obviously

frustrated. But over the 90 minutes, he had an elbow at Arbeloa and made

a couple of kicks at some players... I think he did well enough.

doubt about that but you cannot afford in a game of this magnitude

to be petulant and I am afraid he was. I do not think he had enough

quality balls. The officials have been magnificent. The whole

tournament, we have hardly ever spoken about them at the end of any

game, which is a good thing, no doubt. The standard of refereeing

has been excellent. I was pleased to see that most of the time they

kept be yellow cards in their pockets, so it has been more

physical compared to the past and that is good for the game. It has

encouraged an open game. Probably a good time to hand back to Guy

Mowbray. A very good game, Gary. As far as

Pedro Proenca is concerned. He did not have too much to officiate on.

We have seen fair play at Euro 2012, which perhaps we have not always

seen at the major tournaments. Three red cards, two in the opening

game of when we thought, here we go. Well done to the Portuguese team of

officials, and most of the referees, as distant referees and the

additional assistance, the men with the sticks behind the goal, for the

job they have done. Buffon is putting on a brave face. I

mentioned that this Italian team have become known as "the Italy of

smiles", but it is hard for them to master one at the moment after that

footballing lesson. Mark, I think it is fair to say that Prandelli,

after 2010, has really put the pride back into the Azzurri. He has

galvanised the team. He applauded the Spanish there. One thing in

football in my mind, you have to experience how to lose. It is all

part of gaining experience. Mario did storm off at the end, he was

overcome by it all, but by his own volition, I think, he came back out.

He will be there to get his runners-up medal, which is more

than these Italian players probably thought they were getting when they

came into the competition. They have also been very sporting

towards the Spanish. No other option when you have been

completely outplayed. If there was the element of bad luck. How many

coaches does that happen to win you have just made you final

substitution and just substitute gets injured immediately? -- and

your substitute gets injured? The Italians are taking it well. They

are playing England in their next game in an August friendly, that

will take place in Switzerland. Three days before the Premier

League starts. It might well be. The managers will be delighted

about that. Not long now and we are off again. Pirlo getting a special

word from Michel Platini. You might think of him as an administrator

but he was a pretty fine footballer in his day. A better footballer

than an administrator, that is for certain. He was of course a very

accomplished player himself for Juventus, arguably the best years

of his career playing in the Serie A. Here is Mario. He lit up the

semi-final against Germany. Provided two of the greatest

moments of the entire tournament. Cesare Prandelli... He questioned

been in international coach at times because he says he misses the

day-to-day involvement. I am sure Balotelli's time will come for his

country. And for these players, their time is now. An amazing bunch

of footballers. Potter along by an amazing Spanish system -- brought

along. They have brought the coaches through, got teams playing

the way a lot of us say we want to see football played, technically

brilliant, from Barcelona to Real Madrid, right the way through La

Liga, every one of these can play. Andrea Pirlo can play as well but

he can't do it on his own. No team before has retained the trophy, the

Henri Delaunay Trophy. No team has managed to win from Europe three

major tournaments in a row. It all started at Euro 2008, and it was

carried on in scintillating style at the World Cup in South Africa,

and then we all got a bit fed up with it, it seemed! We were saying

they had peaked, that they were not ruthless enough. I think we had

been spoilt. And then tonight happened. Spain reached a whole new

level of football altogether. Every one of these players, beaming.

Gerrard Pique, plays for Barcelona, European champion, world champion,

he is dating Shakira, does he ever have a bad day?! He gets his medal

for Michel Platini. The Golden Boot, Fernando Torres. A really nice shot

of him with his kids. In the net. He did not know where to find it a

little while ago but he does now. His career has picked up again

after some dark times. A regular scorer for Chelsea towards the end

of the season and three goals at Euro 2012. These are great scenes,

seems you will remember as a football supporter. There always

has to be a losing team but at the moment in world football terms,

there is only one team of all to read winner's, coached by Vicente

del Bosque, captained by the brilliant Iker Casillas. Michel

Platini will take his place centre stage. And history will be made,

when he hands over the Henri Delaunay Trophy, a trophy that

marks Spain out as European champions, again! Once more, they

The Spanish celebrations truly begin. The trophy held aloft,

players have the shirts of footballers who have recently lost

their lives. Ramos is the 23-year- old bet is player, known as Mickey,

who died of cancer a short while ago -- Betis. The Spanish players

have tears of joy. Fabregas holds the trophy aloft and every single

one of these players have been magnificent in this tournament.

Absolutely. Right from the word go, the reigning champions, the

pressure is on, can they do it three on the trot, have they got

the spirit and resolve? To right. If you think of when they played in

the first half, it was a pleasure and privilege to be here watching

it. It was just exceptional. That is what everybody in the world is

going to aspire to. That sort of technical ability that the Spanish

have got in abundance, everybody has got to try and be as good as

that. I am not sure anyone ever will be as good as that team. I

think we have seen something unique. Do you think that star will be

copied? In many ways, it is a wonderful gift of the game, this

possessions style of football that is so easy on the eye. Unless you

on the receiving end, obviously, like I am tonight! But I am still

very proud of my boys, the Italians, because this is a good starting

point for the New World Cup. A new team, a new manager, he did

wonderful and now we have our confidence back and we will be

looking very difficult to beat him two years time. It is a great night

for football. A team can win a major Championship playing this way,

with six in the middle of the park, and pass their way through, and we

know how difficult it is to pass your way through two bands of

forwards, but they did it tonight time after time, with quick,

thought for, purposeful, technically great football. It is

hard to pick out one individual because they are all wonderfully

gifted! An incredible squat with an incredible manager. The hunger and

their desire from these guys, because let's not forget, these

guys have had an unbelievable amount of success, so for them to

actually come here again and show their desire to get that trophy...

He has got a great first touch! I like the simplicity and a humble

miss of the celebration. They are not every exaggerating. -- and the

humble style of the celebration. Many of these players are from

Barcelona, others from Real Madrid, and only Silva was a non-Barcelona

and Real Madrid player. Then Torres and Mata came on of course. They

are lining up for the photographers, of which there are hundreds.

Italians were gracious in defeat and the Spanish were humble in

victory. They embraced each other and it is very difficult when you

have just got beaten. This is special, special, special, but for

the losers, there is a big chasm of difference and there is no good

news and no way to go. Where does this teams stand in terms of

footballing history? Is it right at the top? For me, I think they are

the best ever. You mentioned the Brazil side, with the ability of

Pele, and all of these guys. But when you look at this team, it is

absolutely unbelievable what they have achieved. Balotelli is still

there! I think all people argued that the Brazilians of 1970 were

truly exceptional. You said at half-time that you have never seen

a passing display like that. the Brazilians had players that

would just like, they had Pele at centre-forward, arguably the best

player of all time. But this side must rank with anything we have

seen in the last 20 or 30 years. They are that good. It is also the

finest firework display at any European Championship! Magnificent!

It has taken us bother by surprise at the end of proceedings! --

rather by surprise! Brilliant. Jordi Alba played great as well,

what a game he had. It always hurts when you use but when you used

against Spain, you can kind of accepted -- when you lose. They are

the best team at the moment in world football, that is for sure.

Let's remind us of how the victory came about. Magnificent football

for most of the goals. Right from the word go, they were up for it

picked it up. Fabregas made a great run. A great ball in. And a

Chiellini. I think Barzagli should have done better. But Silva it made

the run from outside the box, and I think we could have picked it up a

bit better. That was the first goal. Silva's magic moment. We are taking

a chance here because we are one goal down so we are pressing them

very high on the pitch. We are taking a chance. The time of our

pressing is not perfect and again, we should have done better. The

pass is magnificent. He actually put it on to his foot. A lovely

touch. Fantastic. Xavi and Iniesta, what a combination! For goodness