MILAN: Juventus defender Leonardo Bonucci believes Italy will have to reproduce their stirring Euro 2016 last 16 victory over Spain if they are to beat 'La Roja' in Turin on Thursday.
Italy began their World Cup 2018 qualifying campaign against Israel last month when Bonucci, despite undergoing a family crisis, was part of the team that secured a precious won 3-1 in Haifa.
Giam Piero Ventura's men now face the much tougher task of a Spain side that has its sights firmly on claiming top spot and automatic qualification for Russia 2018.
The sides last met at Euro 2016 where Italy, then under the helm of Chelsea manager Antonio Conte, ended Spain's chances of a hat-trick of titles with a 2-0 win in the last 16.
Bonucci hopes the familiar surroundings of Juventus Stadium will be beneficial.
"Walking out into Juventus Stadium is always a special feeling, it feels like home and gives me a different kind of energy," Bonucci said Tuesday.
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