Spain boss Vicente del Bosque has rejected suggestions that Italy are purely a defensive team, but has branded the Azzurri "very good defensively" ahead of Monday's last-16 clash at Euro 2016.

After missing the chance to top Group D, Spain were drawn against Group E winners Italy in the first knockout round and the two teams will meet at the Stade de France on Monday night.

Del Bosque has paid tribute to the strength of the Italian backline, but does not believe that the last-16 clash, which is a repeat of the Euro 2012 final, will be attack versus defence.

"Italy are very good defensively, but they also have attacking players. They have great wide players, two forwards and it's true that with the defensive quartet, with three centre-backs and Daniele De Rossi, they are immovable but that doesn't make them a defensive team," Del Bosque told AS.

"They've changed the midfield and are perhaps more direct than 2012. I don't see them as defensive even though they have that label. The centre-backs do very well, they know each other well."

Spain are attempting to win their third straight European Championship crown this summer.

Written by
Matt Law