Preview: Spain vs. Italy

Holders Spain kick off the defence of their European Championship title on Sunday when they take on Italy in Group C at the PGE Arena in Gdansk.

The world champions are hoping to clinch a record third consecutive international title out in Poland and the Ukraine, while the Azzurri are aiming to secure their first Euro triumph since 1968.

Spain are quite rightly the favourites to lift the trophy come the end of the tournament, while question marks have been raised over the Italians after losing three friendlies on the bounce.

Cesc Fabregas should be fit and available for Spain following a hamstring problem, while Alvaro Arbeloa and Jesus Navas have shaken off minor knocks.

However, Barcelona duo Carles Puyol and David Villa have been ruled out of the tournament with long-term injuries.

Giuseppe Rossi is an absentee for Cesare Prandelli's men and Domenico Criscito has been excluded following another match-fixing scandal back home.

Elsewhere, Andrea Barzagli will miss the opening two matches with a calf strain.

Current form:

Spain: LDWWWW Italy: DWWLLL

Possible lineups:

Spain: Casillas; Ramos, Pique, Albiol, Arbeloa; Busquets, Alonso, Xavi, Iniesta; Silva; Torres

Italy: Buffon; Balzaretti, Bonucci, Maggio, Ogbonna; Montolivo, De Rossi, Motta, Marchisio, Pirlo; Balotelli

Sports Mole says: 2-0