Italy praise strike partnership

Last updated : 22 June 2008 By Al Campbell
The Italian defender Christian Panucci expects the striking partnership of Torres and Villa to be Spain's biggest threat in the last Euro 2008 quarter final tonight.

"Torres and Villa are strong that's obvious," he said.

"Benzema and Henry were supposed to be a strong strike force but look what happened there.

"Me and Chiellini are doing really well at the back and I think he will be one of the best defenders in the world very soon."

"It will not be a battle of the individuals, but rather two excellent teams, as Spain are not only Villa," added midfielder Mauro Camoranesi.

"In fact, if I have to be perfectly honest with my own personal opinion here, I think Torres is a better and more complete forward than his teammate."

"Italy need to be careful on the wings and they need to watch out for Fernando Torres and David Villa," said Roma boss Luciano Spalletti.

"Those two strikers are fast and excellent and it's fundamental that Italy are compact.

"We have to be ready and try and intercept the balls going towards Villa's feet.

"We also have to watch Torres' runs as well. Aragones has some great young players at his disposal and he is using them very well."