Fabregas Wary of Italian Job

Spain midfielder Cesc Fabregas is wary of the threat posed by Italy's attack as the two countries gear up for the Euro 2012 final on Sunday.

Mario Balotelli and Antonio Cassano head Italy's attack and Fabregas said: "They have a lot of variety up front.

"They have strong players like Balotelli, tricky players like Cassano.

"In midfield they have special players like [Claudio] Marchisio and [Andrea] Pirlo, who's had a great tournament. It will be a tough game."

Fabregas equalised for Spain after Italy took the lead against them when the teams drew 1-1 in their Group C opener at the start of their Euro 2012 campaigns.

Antonio Di Natale scored for the Azzurri as Spain conceded the only goal against them in the tournament.

"The winners will be deserving champions," said Fabregas. "I think we've been the two most consistent teams at the tournament."

Balotelli, 21, scored twice in Italy's semi-final win over Germany to set up a final against Spain.

And, while Fabregas knows the danger Italy's strikers possess, he is also aware of the overall strength of Cesare Prandelli's side.

"They have a very competitive team," said Fabregas.

"They are very experienced at the back and up front, and they have players who had excellent seasons for teams like AC Milan, Inter Milan and Juventus.

"On top of that they have a goalkeeper [Gianluigi Buffon] who's a natural leader, but Spain have a great goalkeeper as well in Iker Casillas."

Spain will be trying to make history on Sunday as they are going for an unprecedented win at a third major tournament on the trot after victories at Euro 2008 and the 2010 World Cup.

"We are aware of what we are playing for on Sunday," said La Roja defender Sergio Ramos.

"It is something that as of today no team has ever achieved. It requires many years of work and sacrifice. No matter what happens we have already made history.

"This hasn't finished though and the icing on the cake would be to return and win the Euros."