Euro 2012 Final: Preview & Prediction

Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon and his Spanish counterpart Iker Casillas could both be pivotal in deciding the Euro 2012 Final. (Reuters)

When Spain and Italy played to a 1-1 draw in the group stage match, I doubt very many people thought it would be a preview of the final. As it turns out, the two sides survived to reach the final, but in very different manners.

Spain was always among the favorites to win Euro 2012. After all, the Spaniards are looking to win a historic third consecutive major tournament. With seven points in Group C, Spain advanced as the group winner to play France in the quarterfinals. Xabi Alonso scored twice to lead the Spanish to a 2-0 victory. In the semifinals, they met Portugal in an Iberian showdown. A physical display by both sides led to a still scoreless line following 120+ minutes of play. In the penalties, it was the Spaniards who were the stronger and proved to be the victors.

Many thought Italy was simply hoping for a nice run at Euro 2102 to put its somewhat bleak recent history to rest. We have come to discover that the Italians had greater plans than that. They managed to advance from the group stage by the narrowest of margins over Croatia. Like the Spaniards, the Italians had to endure the drama of penalty kicks. Theirs came in the quarterfinals against England. A clutch goal by Andrea Pirlo and a crucial save by Gianluigi Buffon helped Italy to advance over England. In the semifinals, the Italians came in big underdogs to Germany. However, some great team play by the Azzurri led to two beautiful first half goals by Mario Balotelli. The Germans tried to recover, but the Italians held on to win 2-1.

There are many great players in this final, but there a few that I would recommend you keep an eye on more than the rest. Few players play the game as beautifully and seemingly effortlessly as Andrea Pirlo. His dribbling skill, ability to control the flow of the match, and capability to be a lethal scorer are just some of the aspects of his wonderful game. Spain's offense hasn't been as dominant as it can be, but one of the main man who is creating opportunities for himself and his teammates is David Silva. Silva's maneuverability could be a crucial aspect of the Spanish attack. For Mario Balotelli, Euro 2012 has been a microcosm of his career. There's been the highs, lows, and amazing goals. If he has any more of the latter, the Italians could be in very good shape.

Then, of course, there are the two goalkeepers. Italy's Gianluigi Buffon and Spain's Iker Casillas are two of the best in the world. Buffon's keen instincts and reactions are unparalleled in Europe. He wears his passion for the game and love for his country on his sleeves for all to see. Casillas uses his speed and excellent positioning to his advantage. His calm demeanor anchors the Spanish defense. Both men are their respective country's captains and mean so much to the success of their sides.

Deciding a winner among these two sides is a difficult task, but I believe I have come to my decision. The Italians are thriving coming off their shocking upset of Germany. They have improved drastically as the tournament has worn on. The Spanish have of course played very well, but have at times looked complacent and tired. I expect a hard fought 90+ minutes will result in a level 1-1 scoreline. In the extra time, I believe Pirlo will find a little extra magic left and will put home a beautiful strike from distance. The Italians will hold on to win 2-1 in extra time. That's my prediction. Now, we just have to wait and see what happens. The start of the match is only a little over 12 hours away. I can hardly wait.