Spain crowned Under-21 European Championship winners

Spain have successfully defended their Under-21 European Championship crown with a 4-2 win over Italy in the final in Israel.

A first-half hat-trick from Thiago Alcantara put the holders in control before Isco netted midway through the second half to see his country lift the trophy for a fourth time overall.

Spain took the lead with five minutes on the clock when Thiago headed in from Alvaro Morata's cross.

However, the Italians were behind for only four minutes as Ciro Immobile levelled the match with his cute finish over the advancing David de Gea.

Spain regained the lead on 30 minutes thanks to Thiago's confident strike from Koke's incisive pass.

The Barcelona youngster completed his hat-trick from the penalty spot with 10 minutes left in the half following Giulio Donati's foul on Cristian Tello.

It was Isco's turn to score from 12 yards out on 65 minutes after Martin Montoya was brought down by Vasco Regini.

Fabio Borini pulled a goal back for the Italians on 79 minutes with his low drive from outside of the area, but the Azzurri were unable to add to their tally as Spain held out for the win.