There is no more significant match, at the European level, than a Spain-Italy encounter, igniting the rivalry between two teams that know each other inside out. This Thursday, in Enschede (20:45), they will play the 40th chapter of this intense Mediterranean history. Moreover, it is a semi-final of the UEFA Nations League, a high-voltage event that sells itself.

This classic has produced unforgettable moments, with joys evenly distributed. Spain has won 14 matches, drawn 13, and suffered 12 defeats, scoring 43 goals and conceding just one more. In recent years, Spain and Italy have faced each other on numerous occasions, with the memory of the Euro 2008 triumph serving as a turning point for the national team. Cesc converted that penalty in the quarterfinal shootout, and Spain felt liberated, marking the first step of that golden era that culminated in two continental titles (one of them precisely against Italy in the epic final in Kiev) and the 2010 World Cup.

Spain emerged victorious in the last duel between the two teams, precisely in the semifinals of the 2021 Nations League. It was a thrilling match at San Siro, which served, in a way, as a redemption for the defeat in the semifinals of the 2021 European Championship.

And now Spain and Italy meet again, always close, always competitive. It is a classic, and there is nothing in football that can compare to it. Especially if you win, of course, and Spain is ready to give their all in search of another joy.