Spain defeated Italy 4-2 in the final of the European Under-21 championship in Jerusalem, Israel.
A first half hat-trick from Barcelona midfielder Thiago Alcantra, and a second half goal from Malaga midfielder Isco ensured that Spain retained the European U-21 Championship.
Spanish Under-21s has now matched its senior and U-19s sides in winning consecutive European titles. It was Spain’s 4th triumph at the U-21 level.
Spain opened scoring in the 6th minute when Alvaro Morata’s cross met Thiago who placed a thumping header beyond the reach of goalkeeper Francesco Bardi.
Spain made it to the final unbeaten, without conceding a goal, but Ciro Immobile of Italy scored his first goal of the tournament to cancel out ‘La Roja’s’ flawlessness in the 10 minute of the match, collecting Donati’s floated through ball before lobbing David de Gea.
Thiago restored the lead with a crisp shot and extended the margin with a third from the penalty spot after Cristian Tello was brought down by Donati.
Isco penalty sealed the win before Fabio Borini added Italy’s consolation goal in the 80th minute.
