Ruben de la Red insists Spain do not fear Italy, despite their atrocious record against the world champions.
Midfielder not concerned by Spain's record against world champions
Ruben de la Red insists Spain do not fear Italy, despite their atrocious record against the world champions.
Spain face Italy in the Euro 2008 quarter-finals on Sunday, but have not won a competitive match against the Azzurri in almost 90 years.
De la Red is ignoring that statistic as Spain look to win a major tournament for the first time since securing the 1964 European Championship on home soil.
The midfielder, who scored in Wednesday's 2-1 win over Greece, is confident Luis Aragones' side can overcome Italy in Vienna.
Potent attack
"If you look at history, I am sure that Italy are the favourites because since 1920 they have always beaten us in official games, but we are doing well now and the squad is convinced that we can continue winning and reach the final," said De la Red.
"We are in very good form, with a potent attack, a skilful midfield and a strong defence.
"They are the world champions, but there is no fear here. As well as that we beat them in a friendly before the European Championships, and for these two national teams there's no such thing as friendly matches.
"We have started the tournament better than them and we are only thinking about following along the same line.
"We trust in our chances of being able to go out and beat Italy."
