Spain vs. Italy: Rating Both Sets of Players

Spain were not at their best in the Confederations Cup semi-final and were probably lucky to edge an inspired Italy on penalties.

The Spanish controlled possession for long stretches, as expected, but it was the Italians who often looked more likely to score.

Italy will take heart from this showing, despite the disappointment of being eliminated from the competition, while Spain will need to improve to beat Brazil.

Here are the individual player ratings. 

Spain

Starters

Iker Casillas: 7

Casillas was largely a bystander in the penalty shootout, but two excellent first-half saves kept his side in the contest.

Jordi Alba: 6

He had trouble with the lively Maggio all night—one of his poorer showings for Spain in a while.

Sergio Ramos: 8

Ramos had plenty to deal with tonight. He looked in trouble a few times but in the end did his job in keeping the Italians scoreless.

Gerard Pique: 9

An inspiring performance from the centre-back. He defended desperately and got forward dangerously. Shame he couldn't finish any of the chances he made for himself.

Alvaro Arbeloa: 6

Arbeloa was unable to make his mark on the game, as Giaccherini kept him well occupied throughout.

Andres Iniesta: 7

As usual, he provided the flair and creativity for Spain, though for once he was unable to make the difference on the big occasion.

Sergio Busquets: 7

Performed his duties at the base of midfield with aplomb when Spain had the ball, though needed to be more commanding in defense.

Xavi: 7

We saw the best of him late in normal time and during extra time. If he had taken control earlier, the game might not have gone to penalties.

Fernando Torres: 6

In the type of performance that Chelsea fans know all too well, Torres looked threatening on several occasions but ultimately couldn't find the back of the net.

David Silva: 4

Given the chance to prove his worth on the big stage, Silva was unfortunately ineffective tonight.

Pedro: 6

He showed plenty of movement and pace, but like many of the Spanish players, the Italians managed to blunt his cutting edge.

Substitutions

Jesus Navas: 8

His fresh legs and dynamism down the flank allowed Spain to finally take control in the later stages of the contest. He earned his place on all the news bulletins by firing home the winning penalty.

Juan Mata: 7

Another inspired substitution, Mata played well when he came on.

Javi Martinez: 6

Not given much time to make a difference, Martinez did have one chance to seal the game for Spain but flashed his shot wide.

Italy

Starters

Gianlugi Buffon: 8

In a classic performance from the legendary 'keeper, he had long periods of inactivity but was sharp when called upon.

Giorgio Chiellini: 8

The Juventus man was a powerhouse at the back. Spain couldn't find a way past him.

Amdrea Barzagli: 7

He looked solid until he was forced to come off injured.

Leonardo Bonucci: 7

Unfortunately, he was the villain in the penalty shootout, with his effort made to look worse by the quality that had come before, but he was strong in his defensive duties all night.

Daniele De Rossi: 8 

When Italy are at their best in big international matches, Daniele De Rossi is usually front and centre. An inspired performance from the midfield talisman, who showed his versatility by covering in defense.

Andrea Pirlo: 8

It is always fascinating to watch Pirlo up against the Spanish midfield maestros, and he held his own once again with a typically classy display.

Claudio Marchisio: 9

He did brilliantly to stifle the Spanish midfield and provide an offensive threat for his team as well.

Emanuele Giaccherini: 8

He faded slightly later on but was superb in the first half especially, causing Spain all sorts of problems down the flank.

Antonio Candreva: 8

Terrific all-around showing from the Lazio man. Candreva threatened in attack and toiled in defense.

Christian Maggio: 8

One of Italy's best on the night, Maggio gave Spain plenty to think about. He could have done better with a couple of clear chances, though.

Alberto Gilardino: 3

The weak link. Italy edged this match in most areas, but lacked a match-winner up front. Gilardino's best days are behind him. Mario was missed.

Substitutions

Riccardo Montolivo: 5

Not as effective as Spain's substitutions, Montolivo came on for Barzagli but didn't provide enough attacking threat.

Alberto Aquilani: 5

Another sub who failed to make an impact on the game. At least he nailed his penalty, though.

Sebastian Giovinco: 5

More was needed from the little man, who should have troubled the Spanish defenders with his fresh legs.