Spain and Athletic Bilbao striker Fernando Llorente believes it is vital that his nation set a winning precedent in Euro 2012 by beating Italy.
The holders will kickoff their defence of the title in Group C on June 10 against Cesare Prandelli’s team before facing the Republic of Ireland and Croatia.
Speaking to AS, the 26-year-old voiced his belief that getting off to a winning start will be key for Vicente del Bosque’s side.
“It’s a complicated group because the first game will set the tone for the rest. It’s not easy. It depends on how we do against Italy – that will leave a mark for the rest of the matches,” the 26-year-old said.
Llorente has made 19 appearances in his nation’s shirt, and despite the dominance of David Villa in the striker’s role, the 26-year-old is hopeful that he can make the cut for next summer.
“Hopefully I can be in the final squad, I will fight to the death for it, but I am under no illusion. We have great potential up front.”
Group C’s matches will take place at Gdansk’s PGE Arena and Poznan’s Municipal Stadium in Poland.
The Athletic Bilbao striker wants to set a precedent in his nation’s opening match against Cesare Prandelli’s men, and vows to fight for his place in Vicente del Bosque’s squad.
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Llorente wants Spain to beat Italy in opener