Half-Time Report: Italy 0-0 Spain… Barcelona youngster steals show

Italy ended the half in the same manner with which they started it – by clipping the woodwork.

It’s Emerson involved again, overlapping on to Insigne’s pass after Azpilicueta refused to allow the danger man on to his right foot.

The first half was tightly contested, with Spain seeing the majority of the ball but failing to put the Italians to the sword in a way their build-up play merited.

No goals as yet but it’s been an enthralling contest at Wembley. Spain have controlled possession, and have looked good going forward – until the final ball.

As ever, Italy have threatened with pace and aggression, and have twice come close to taking advantage of hesitation in the Spanish defence.

The performance of 18-year-old Pedri, at the heart of the Spanish midfield, had everyone watching swooning, however.
The Barcelona starlet has had an incredible tournament, nerveless on the biggest stage.

Pedri has completed all 31 passes that he’s attempted in the first half versus Italy.

His 31 successful passes are also more than any Italian player in the match so far