Individual fixtures more important than overall Nations League success for Italy

If you haven't noticed already, 2021 has belonged to Italy by just about any measurement. The Azzurri's triumph at Euro 2020 was just one of their many successes this year, with others coming in the Eurovision, the Olympic Games and Women's European Volleyball championship.

Now Roberto Mancini heads into October's international window hoping to continue that success with his side, as they look to add to their trophy collection in the UEFA Nations League.

The Azzurri face Spain in the semi-final this week and they have recent precedent of getting the better of Luis Enrique's La Roja. The two sides met at the same stage of the European Championship over the summer and Mancini's men edged past on penalties to set up a final date with England at Wembley.

A mixed run for Italy

Italy's 37-game unbeaten record has received a lot of attention, but the Azzurri have drawn four of their last five games - including those against Spain and England that they went on to win on penalties.

Their last outing saw them put five past Lithuania without response, but questions have been asked of Mancini's side since their summer success.

The side are still lacking a striker who delivers when he plays for the national team, with Ciro Immobile's Italy form still to hit the highs that he shows with Lazio. Andrea Belotti, meanwhile, is out injured.

A trophy without much appeal

The Nations League would allow Italy to add a new trophy to their collection, but it's not one that many people are all that excited by the prospect of winning.

Used to winning World Cups and being one of Europe's most esteemed countries, the idea of the Nations League isn't something that particularly appeals to Italians.

What might be more motivating, though, is the opportunity to get another win over Spain and then, from there, either another opportunity to swat Belgium aside or to go head-to-head with old foes France.