Spain boss Vicente del Bosque believes that his side will face a "powerful" Italy when the two nations meet in an international friendly on Wednesday.
La Roja thumped Italy 4-0 in the final of Euro 2012, but Del Bosque has predicted a tougher test for the European and world Champions this time around.
"It's an attractive game, important, between champions of the world. Hopefully both teams are up to the standards of what we've achieved," he told reporters at a press conference.
"We're expecting to face a team similar to that of the first game of the European Championships, or of the semi-finals of the Confederations Cup.
"In the 2012 final, they faced us very depleted by injuries. Now though, we're expecting a much tougher Italy, because they've brought a powerful team with them. It will be a very even game."
Spain open their World Cup group campaign against the Netherlands.
Written by
Matt Law
Matt Law
