Spain vs. Italy: Defending Champs Will Send Strong Message with Win

Defending European champion Spain will send a powerful message to the rest of the continent with a tournament-opening win over 2006 World Cup champion Italy (11:45 PM ET, ESPN).

The two football powerhouses will clash in Poland on Sunday, each looking for three critical points to help them draw closer to the knockout stages. 

Watch for Spain to come away with the victory though, as their short passing style is renowned for lulling opponents to sleep and opening up opportunities in the final third. 

In its last four international friendlies, Spain has outscored the opposition 12-1, thanks to a brilliant and unique offense built around short passes and maintaining possession in the midfield. 

The key for Spain will be the strong play of Xavi going forward. One of the world's finest central midfielders, Xavi is exceptional at pushing the pace and making all of the right decisions under pressure. 

Italy's defense will need to be tight on Sunday if they are to have any chance at keeping Xavi and Spain at bay. 

Spain is on its own level and will not hesitate to finish at the net like Ireland and Croatia, the other two squads in Group C. 

Spain is also coming off an impressive showing at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, where they took down Netherlands in the final. They are an accomplished bunch, that's for sure, but that doesn't change the importance of winning the European Cup every four years.

La Roja is on a mission again in 2012, and Italy will be the first unfortunate recipient of their message on Sunday in Poland.

Follow Patrick Clarke on Twitter for more on this summer's Euro 2012.