Spain and Italy to produce first long-haul final since Euro 2000

As Spain line up for their third major tournament final in succession, Italy could represent their most difficult challenge to date, with a normal time draw between the sides appealing at 21/10.

The two nations have already met in Poland and Ukraine, kicking off their tournament against each other in a Group C clash, from which a 1-1 draw emanated.

Stalemates have also proven the most popular outcome in past encounters of the nations, prevailing on half of the 12 occasions they have squared off against each other.

With the last two of those draws coming in European Championship competition too, this tie looks as though it may be set to go the distance.

Further lending weight to this notion is Italy’s three draws in 90 minutes from five outings at this year’s tournament, while Spain have drawn on two occasions during the competition.

Each have played out extra-time and penalties once after drawing in normal time at the knockout phase too, indicating that the final could be decided on spot kicks for the first time since 1976.

Both sides are attributed 9/1 prices to win via a penalty shootout, and this was the method Italy last claimed a major title by, when lifting the 2006 World Cup.

Spain meanwhile, claimed their last tournament success in extra-time, where Andres Iniesta’s late goal separated them from Holland in the 2010 World Cup.

The Spanish are 9/1 to win in extra-time here too, which would ensure a successful defence of their European crown.

Italy will be hopeful of avenging the events of Euro 2000 however, where, after leading for so much of the game in normal time, they went on to succumb to defeat in extra-time at the hands of France.

Cesare Prandelli’s men are 12/1 to overcome the reigning champions in extra-time on Sunday, and claim a second European Championship victory.

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.