Spain vs. Italy Start Time: When and Where to Watch Epic Euro 2012 Final

Sunday's Euro 2012 final between European football powerhouses Spain and Italy is sure to entertain and surprise as the Azzurri are primed for an upset in Kiev, Ukraine.

When: Sunday, July 1, 2:45 p.m. ET

Where: Kiev Olympic Stadium in Kiev, Ukraine

Watch: ESPN

Live Streaming: ESPN3.com

Italy are coming off a shocking defeat of tournament favorite Germany on Thursday in their semifinal match. Two early goals from super Mario Balotelli led the Italians to an unlikely 2-1 win. The Azzurri will ride that momentum to their first European Championship in 44 years, and second overall.

Balotelli's two goals against Germany give him three for the tournament. Meanwhile Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon and the Italy back line have been playing heroic defense en route to earning a berth in the final. 

Buffon's veteran presence in front of net has kept the Italians unbeaten so far at this summer's tournament, and will keep them within striking range against defending European and World Cup champion Spain.

The Spanish have looked far from unbeatable so far at Euro 2012, failing to score a single goal against Portugal in Wednesday's semifinal. Spain advanced 4-2 on penalty kicks but will need to find some consistency in the final third on Sunday if they are to become the first team to win back-to-back European Championships.

The last time the two teams played was three weeks ago in the Group C opener, which resulted in a 1-1 draw. Italy was leading before a rare defensive gaffe made way for the match-tying goal from Cesc Fabregas.

This time around though Italy has the edge against the defending champion. The brilliant midfield play of Andrea Pirlo and company combining with Balotelli up front, who is top form, along with the sturdy back line and Buffon in goal will result in an Italian celebration on Sunday in Ukraine. 

Follow Bleacher Report Featured Columnist Patrick Clarke on Twitter for more on Euro 2012.