Holders Spain have been held to a 1-1 draw with Italy in their opening Euro 2012 Group C clash in Gdansk.

The Azzurri came close after 20 minutes when Antonio Cassano's shot flashed across the face of goal and was narrowly missed by Mario Balotelli.

Claudio Marchisio then provided a rare highlight with a thunderous volley from 30-yards out that Iker Casillas needed two attempts to hold.

The first major chance came one minute before the break and fell to Andres Iniesta after the Barcelona man was found by his club teammate Xavi, but he could only lift his shot over the bar.

Thiago Motta then had the best chance of the opening half when his powerful header was well-saved by Casillas on the stroke of half time.

As both sides found their way at the start of the second half, Balotelli was caught dwelling in the penalty area by Sergio Ramos before he could make up his mind whether to shoot or play in a teammate.

The Manchester City forward was subsequently taken off in place of Antonio Di Natale and the substitute had an instant impact when he slotted in past Casillas following Andrea Pirlo's defence-splitting pass.

However, the defending champions weren't behind for long as Cesc Fabregas was picked out in the box by David Silva before calmly firing in.

Jordi Alba should have done better soon after when he volleyed wide from substitute Jesus Navas's pinpoint cross.

The Spaniards then brought on Fernando Torres and the striker had a golden opportunity to give his side the lead when he was put through on goal. However, Buffon was out quickly off his line to tackle the forward and clear to safety.

Di Natale was on the stretch when he put wide his volley with 15 minutes to go, while Torres scooped the ball narrowly over the crossbar in the 85th minute.

There was one final chance for the holders, but Xabi Alonso shot marginally wide from the edge of the box.