For those wondering how long it would take for Spain to respond to Italy taking the lead through a goal by Antonio Di Natale, the answer is: less than three minutes. Cesc Fabregas stepped forward to prove that, despite not being a true striker, he can make the forward runs and he can score the goals. He easily skipped away from the inexperienced Emanuele Giaccherini to drive the ball straight into the back of the net.
As celebrations ensued, both sides took the opportunity to make a change. David Silva made way for Jesus Navas, showing that Vincente del Bosque clearly believes that Fabregas is enough and no strikers are needed. As for the azzurri, their change was predictable -- take off Antonio Cassano, put on Sebastian Giovinco. It's the forward partnership that has been drilled in training, so god forbid we keep Cassano and Di Natale on at the same time. It seems this adherence to a creed will likely come back to haunt Italy.
Follow along here, our Spain vs. Italy, Euro 2012 StoryStream, for live coverage of the match. For more on Euro 2012 and the entire world of football, follow @SBNationSoccer on Twitter.
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