Mourinho criticises 'sterile' Spain formation

Jun 10, 2012 9:21:00 PM

The Real Madrid manager believes that the European Championship holders will struggle without a recognised striker on the pitch but believes Italy can go far in the competition

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has slammed Spain's "sterile" striker-less formation following their 1-1 draw with Italy in the opening game of Group C at Euro 2012.

Vicente del Bosque chose to overlook Fernando Torres, Alvaro Negredo and Fernando Llorente in order to play 6 midfielders in a 4-3-3 formation.

And the Portuguese boss has hit out at the Spain manager's tactical approach, insisting it damaged Spain's potency.

"It's not good to keep on passing between Xavi, Iniesta and Fabregas without creating a big threat on Buffon's goal," he told Al Jazeera.

"Yes there was a big effort from Spanish midfielders but without a striker the team was sterile."

The 49-year-old did confess to being impressed by the Italians however, and is backing them to surprise a few people during the remainder of the tournament.

He added: "Italy made a good start for their campaign. They played with big discipline in the defense,

"I think Italy can go too far in this tournament. Spain failed to stop Pirlo, and when the latter plays comfortable he makes a lot of problems. De Rossi is the joker of the team and one of the greatest Italian players."

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