Italy captain Gigi Buffon is confident Spain won’t be looking for a 2-2 draw against Croatia which could eliminate the Azzurri from Euro 2012.
The Italian media is fearing a repeat of Euro 2004 when Giovanni Trapattoni’s side were dumped out of the competition thanks to a 2-2 between Sweden and Denmark.
Italy captain Gigi Buffon is confident Spain won’t be looking for a 2-2 draw against Croatia which could eliminate the Azzurri from Euro 2012.
The Italian media is fearing a repeat of Euro 2004 when Giovanni Trapattoni’s side were dumped out of the competition thanks to a 2-2 between Sweden and Denmark.
But the Juventus ‘keeper has told his official Facebook page that he believes a victory against the Republic of Ireland, now bossed by Trap, on Monday will be enough.
“I’m convinced our destiny is exclusively in our own hands,” he stated after the 1-1 draw with Croatia.
“If we win then we’ll go through, so we won’t start to worry unnecessarily about possible outcomes elsewhere.
“When you have the awareness of being stronger, you’re not scared of anything. You play to enjoy yourselves and to win, while looking to express your superiority.
“As I’ve said before, Spain will be Spain – I’m fully convinced about that.”
Italy took the lead against Croatia on Thursday, but they failed to double their advantage and their opponents hit back after the break.
“There’s an element of bitterness that will remain,” Buffon added. “At least until the next game – the decisive game!”