Spain to play Italy without a striker

Spain striker Fernando Torres was left on the bench as coach Vicente del Bosque fielded a team without a recognised centre forward for the holders' Group C opener against Italy on Sunday.

Attacking midfielders Cesc Fabregas, who has only recently shaken off a hamstring strain, Andres Iniesta and David Silva were all included along with playmaker Xavi, with Sergio Busquets and Xabi Alonso in the central holding positions.

Italy coach Cesare Prandelli handed a surprise debut to Emanuele Giaccherini, likely to play at left wing back, with Daniele De Rossi moving from midfield to a three-man defence.

Prandelli also opted for Thiago Motta in midfield, over Riccardo Montolivo and Antonio Nocerino, with Mario Balotelli as a lone striker and Antonio Cassano playing just behind and expected to help unlock the Spanish defence.

Teams for Sunday's Euro 2012 Group C match between Spain and Italy at the PGE Arena (1600 GMT):