Italy defender Christian Maggio believes that Sunday's 1-1 draw with Spain has boosted the national team's confidence.

Italy took the lead against the world champions before being pegged back, however, Maggio has stated that the result was "very good for our self-esteem".

"We have started the Euros well and that is a sign that we have already turned things around after the Russia game," the 30-year-old told reporters.

"The match [against Spain] started well for us and if they hadn't equalised immediately then we could have even secured all three points. But now we have to think about Croatia, a completely different team to Spain and in great shape physically."

Italy face Croatia on Thursday.