Spain vs. Italy, 2013 Confederations Cup: Halftime score 0-0, Azzurri looking dangerous
No Mario Balotelli? No problem. Italy have looked more likely to score than Spain in the first half.
Spain have had all of the ball in the first half as per usual, but they haven't been able to do anything with it. Italy have been excellent on the counter attack, especially down the wings, and have been the much more dangerous team going forward. It's 0-0 at halftime, but the Azzurri will be thrilled with their performance.
The Spaniards started strong, putting Italy under serious early pressure. Pedro had a great chance in just the second minute, but pulled his shot wide. A minute later, Emanuele Giaccherini squandered a great counter with a poor cross, but it was a sign that Italy was going to be able to find space to counter into.
While Spain had more of the ball, Italy kept looking dangerous on the break throughout the first half. Alberto Gilardino just missed on a diving header in the 15th minute and Christian Maggio had a shot saved by Iker Casillas, who had to come well off his line to make a stop in the 17th minute.
Italy had the best chance of the half in the 36th minute on a cross from Giaccherini. Jordi Alba lost Maggio at the back post and the Italian right back connected with a header, but Casillas came up with another big save. One minute later, Fernando Torres looked to have the opener after a great turn and shot, but he powered his attempt wide of the far post.
It wouldn’t be surprising to see a halftime substitution from Spain. They were very unimpressive in the final third in the first half and have an absolutely loaded bench.
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