Spain vs. Italy: Predicting the Italian Starting Lineup for Euro 2012 Final

Italy shocked much of the football world with a comprehensive victory over Germany in the second Euro 2012 semifinal.

In doing so, they have set up a rematch with Spain, with whom they tied 1-1 in their very first game of the tournament.

Italy lined up in a 3-5-2 formation for that game to counter Spain's possession, and it almost worked as they scored first.

That setup was a little bit out of necessity as well, thanks to an injury to central defender Andrea Barzagli, and since the third game in the tournament the Italians have lined up in a 4-3-1-2 formation with better performances in each game.

Here is a prediction of the starting lineup for Italy in the Euro 2012 final.

Formation (4-3-1-2)

                            Buffon

      Abate   Barzagli   Chiellini   Balzaretti

            Marchisio   Pirlo   De Rossi

                          Montolivo

                   Balotelli   Cassano

The Italians will line up as they did against Germany, with a few changes in the defensive area should Abate recover from his injury. If he is unable, Christian Maggio should be returning from suspension and may get the nod.

Italy's midfield setup was able to knock Germany out of its rhythm, and they will be hoping to repeat the feat against Spain. The defense was stout, and the attack was on fire. They really have no need to change formation considering how they have played recently.