July 2021, October 2021, June 2023. Spain and Italy are once again crossing paths in the semi-finals, just like they did during the Azzurri’s triumphant Euro campaign and the Nations League finals in Italy. In Enschede, Netherlands, Roberto Mancini’s side have the chance to make it to the final. As a result, they’re certainly not lacking in motivation: “It’s the second time we’ve been involved in the Nations League finals, and it’s not easy to get this far,” said the Head Coach on the eve of the game. “It’s excellent that we’ve been able to do so with a young team and after progressing from a difficult group that contained Germany, England and Hungary. Matches against Spain are always difficult; they’re a team full of high-quality players. They can change things around while keeping the same system and maintaining the same quality of play.”

Just like De La Fuente’s side, the Azzurri, who tomorrow will wear the commemorative adidas shirt to celebrate the FIGC’s 125th anniversary, are going through a rebuild: “We played our Nations League qualifiers with many new players, youngsters and others who are now here. We are evolving and still need to change a few more things as we head towards the Euros. Spain were a dominant force for many years but have encountered a few difficulties this year. Nevertheless, but they possess great quality and have great depth. This is why it’s always difficult to face them.” Up front, Mancini will also have Ciro Immobile at his disposal: “Since the European Championship - and this also applies to Chiesa and others – he’s had various physical problems. We’ve missed these players. Now, he’s feeling good. He’s here and we’re happy about that. He’s a very important figure for us, both as a player and a person. Both he and Regetui will play; we have two games in three days coming up.”

The hope, of course, is the second game will be the final on Sunday evening: “We’ll display the things we’ve been trying out,” said Leonardo Bonucci. “A trophy is up for grabs, and lifting silverware and bringing it home is always a pleasure. I expect Spain to have a lot of the ball. For our part, we’ll have to avoid making mistakes when in possession and show a clinical edge when chances come our way.” Italy are set to return to the pitch almost three months on from their first two EURO 2024 qualifying matches: “We’re heading into this one on the back of a result against England that we weren’t happy with. The fact that 15 of the 23 players in the squad were involved at the European Championship? The more we resemble that group, the more we can come together and help the Coach bring in fresh forces and new talent. We want to re-lay the bricks that helped us win the European Championship.”