Yes it could be a decisive factor. Pirlo has been in outstanding form in this tournament, whereas Xavi even though being the playmaker has not been able to make defence splitting passes for Iniesta, David Silva and Fabregas. Another factor is that Pirlo sits deep in the Italian defence and makes through passes and with the help of other midfielders like Rossi and Montelivio to two outright forwards in the form of Cassano and Balotelli. The Spanish coach will have to start with both Torres and Fabregas to make the attack more potent in place of Denegro and David Silva. Torres being an outright forward and Fabregas an attacking midfielder will have more chances to score goals. Xavi's presence in the midfield can be effective only when people are in front to score goals. By playing 6 midfielders against Portugal, Spain were not able to score a goal in the normal and extra time. What if they would have lost the match in Penalty shootouts despite dominating possession, all those who ...more

Pirlo is one of the best played in Milan and he was the reason to lead Milan for many championships
and Xvai also one of the good players in F.C.B but as a team Spain are better as they used to play together always maybe that is the secret beyond their continuing success
so let's see n then we will say we will be better today

I endorse the views of Maradona.