Azzurri go flat in Euro tune-up v. Spain; defeat Portugal in February

After a nearly six month absence from the scene, I thought it was time to check in on the Azzurri as they begin preparations for the Euro2008 which begins in a few weeks.

Back on March 26 the Italians lost a heart-breaker to Spain 1-0. David Villa scored the game's only goal at the 76 minute mark to extend Spain's unbeaten streak to 14 matches. Italy had several chances including a goal by Luca Toni that was called back for offsides.

Coach Roberto Donadoni downplayed the defeat by saying that Italy did not deserve to lose the match.

Match report: Spain 1 - Italy 0

On February 6, Italy soundly defeated Portugal, 3-1 in Zurich Switzerland, in another friendly. It was their first international game since securing a spot in Euro2008 in December. Luca Toni continued his excellent play as he secured the first Italian score just before the halftime whistle.

Match report: Italy 3 - Portugal 1