Three reasons why Spain will defeat Italy in their Euro 2016 last 16 match

Here is why Spain will beat Italy in their last 16 match on Monday.

Italy go head to head against Spain in what is expected to be a thrilling last 16 encounter between the two European giants. Spain stand a higher chance of winning this duel and here’s why:

High goal-conversation rate

Spain boasts of the likes of Alvaro Morata (below) who has scored three goals in this tournament so far. But if the Real Madrid man does not score on regular time or extra time and the match heads to penalties, then Spain still have an advantage over the Azzurri.

Spain have won the most penalty shootouts at the European Championship along with the Czech Republic. One of those three shootouts was against Italy in the Euro 2008 when La Furia Roja were crowned champions after beating Germany in the finals.

Strong star-studded midfield

spain seem to have a stronger midfield compared Italy. The former boast of the likes of Andres Iniesta, Cesc Fabregas, Sergio Busquets, Thiago Alcantara and David Silva. They have the capacity to dominate the midfield while Iniesta, who is well-known for his pinpoint passes, is capable of creating chances for Alvaro Morata and Nolito up front.

Head to head record

Spain have not lost 10 of their last 11 matches against Italy. In those 10 matches, Vincente del Bosque’s men have only conceded six goals. Spain’s solid defence could be put into test on Monday but if their recent record against Italy is anything to go by, then they can be rest assured of a win here.