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03/29/2024 10:40:50 am

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Italy Held Spain’s Relentless Attacks to a Draw in the World Cup Qualifier

Italy v Spain - FIFA 2018 World Cup Qualifier

(Photo : Getty Images/Claudio Villa ) Ciro Immobile of Italy fights for the ball with Dani Carvajal (L) and Gerard Pique of Spain during the FIFA 2018 World Cup Qualifier between Italy and Spain at Juventus Stadium on October 6, 2016 in Turin, Italy.

Italy was able to keep Spain to a tight 1-1 draw maintaining the team's unbeaten streak at home in Turin. The teams are in the same group fighting for the top spot in order automatically qualify for the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

Spain clearly dominated the match controlling 72 percent of possession in the first half. However, the Azzuri's defense was indomitable as they kept Spain's attacking players from scoring in the first half.

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Spain was able to break the deadlock after 55 minutes when Italian keeper Gianluigi Buffon missed a clearance which gave Vitolo an easy finish. In an interview following the match, even Vitolo said that he was shocked that Buffon was not able to clear what appears to be an easy challenge.

Italy's attacks did not threaten Spain's defense. However, Sergio Ramos a tackle gave Italy a chance to level the game with a penalty. Daniele de Rossi did not fail this as he equalized the game in the 82nd minute.

In a statement acquired by Washington Times, Spain manager Julen Lopetegui said, "We made a good impression here. I am satisfied, we showed character and ambition. We are on the right path."

With the draw, Spain and Italy are currently leveled on points after both squads won their respective opening qualifier matches. On top of the group is Albania which had won its first two matches. The remaining squads in the group are Israel, Macedonia, and Liechtenstein.

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