Italy coach Cesare Prandelli admits they go into their Confederations Cup semifinal against Spain as massive underdogs.

The two teams will again face off this week just a year after the Spaniards beat the Azzurri 4-0 in the Final of Euro 2012.

"Spain are in much better shape than us, given the ease with which they qualified," Prandelli stated. "They have a clear identity and are clear favourites.

"Spain are the best team in the world and they have proved that over the last four or five years. They are almost impossible to beat.

"One would never like to play them, but we have to and I am convinced that we can make it difficult. This challenge always creates great motivation."