Italy is going head to head with Spain starting on 6 Oct 2021 at 18:45 UTC at San Siro/Giuseppe Meazza stadium, Milan city, Italy. The match is a part of the UEFA Nations League, Finals

Italy beat Spain on penalties in last summer’s Euro 2020 semi-final en route to winning the tournament; Italy are currently on a 37-game unbeaten run; Italy vs Spain is live on Sky Sports Football from 7.30pm, kick-off 7.45pm

Roberto Mancini’s stylish European champions, who are defending a 37-game unbeaten record, host Spain in the first of the UEFA Nations League last four encounters at San Siro on Wednesday.

The last meeting between the sides came at Wembley in July when, with a place in the Euros final at stake, Italy prevailed in a penalty shootout after a thrilling 1-1 draw.

Victory this time would set up a final date with Belgium or France, but Mancini, whose side are also of top their World Cup qualifying group, is anticipating a tough clash.

“Spain were the team we struggled against most during Euro 2020,” the former Manchester City boss told uefa.com. “They are a good team with good players. It will be a good match.

“It would be amazing to win (the Nations League) after the European Championship – and it would be amazing to qualify for the World Cup early – but it won’t be that easy. Every game is full of difficulties.” After a slow start at Euro 2020, Spain were beginning to look a strong side by the end of the tournament in the summer, but they were beaten by Sweden in a World Cup qualifier last month.