Match Day 6 Review

Spain v Italy

There's no doubting that we've witnessed greatness in watching Spain lift the Euro 2012 trophy. Looking through their squad, their depth, their talent and their achievements, it's pure perfection. In the comprehensive 4-0 win in the Final, they've managed to become the first ever side to win back-to-back European Championships; the first ever side to win three major international tournaments in a row (Euro 2008, World Cup 2010 and Euro 2012); and just the second ever side to win three European Championships.

They have an abundance of quality throughout their squad. Iker Casillas was unbeatable in goal, and his back four of Alvaro Arbeloa, Gerard Pique, Sergio Ramos and Jordi Alba let no one past. As a unit, they conceded just one goal in their six matches at this tournament. Sergio Busquets and Xabi Alonso were fantastic in screening the midfield. They quickly shut down every opposition attack, whilst instigating moves of their own. Xavi, Andres Iniesta and David Silva were simply sublime in midfield. Their ability to not only pick a pass, but then play it to perfection was a joy and an honour to watch. Meanwhile Cesc Fabregas and Fernando Torres may have had their fair share of criticism at this tournament, but on the biggest stage they came to the fore, with Torres even winning the Golden Boot.

I firmly believe that this Spain side could be the greatest ever, rivalling even Pele's Brazil.

On the other hand, you have to feel for Italy. They were so good at Euro 2012, and despite having an ageing, tired and slightly controversial squad, they've managed to compete so well and reach the Final. They went into this tournament under a massive cloud, with the nation involved in one of the biggest match-fixing scandals in football, however Cesare Prandelli's men have put that behind them to do amazing things in Poland and Ukraine.

Their squad seemed well balanced and hardly showed any of the fatigued effects that I thought they might at this competition. Gianluigi Buffon was his usual brilliant self in goal, and was well marshalled by a superb back line featuring Leonardo Bonucci, Andrea Barzagli and Giorgio Chiellini. Their midfield was superb, and controlled games with ease. Andrea Pirlo was one of the best players in the tournament, and he received fantastic support from the likes of Daniele De Rossi, Claudio Marchisio and Riccardo Montolivo. Up front Mario Balotelli made a name for himself, finishing joint-top goal scorer, while Antonio Cassano provided a fitting strike partner.

It was their night in the Final, however they can leave with their heads held high, knowing they achieved great things at this tournament.

On just a final note, I'd like to congratulation the host nations of Poland and Ukraine on their wonderful job throughout Euro 2012. The stadiums were fantastic, the pitches were magnificent, and largely the behaviour of their home fans was superb. Poland nor Ukraine managed to get out of the group stages, yet their sides showed enormous courage throughout their three games, and deserve to be commended on their efforts.