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BORDEAUX. — Spain boss Vicente del Bosque admitted he would rather have avoided a Euro 2016 last 16 clash with old foes Italy after a 2-1 defeat to Croatia on Tuesday night.

Ivan Perisic’s goal three minutes from time condemned the two-time defending champions to second place in Group D and repeat of the 2012 final with Italy in Paris on Monday.

“It is not ideal, that would have been to finish first (in the group),” said Del Bosque.

“We have to recover well. We are prepared to turn this situation around.

“We continue in the competition and, although it isn’t the desired way, we have to raise ourselves to continue in the Euros.”

Del Bosque lamented letting slip an early lead made by Alvaro Morata. Despite the absence of the injured Luka Modric, Croatia roared back through Nikola Kalinic and Perisic’s late strike.

Spain could now also have to face world champions Germany in the quarter-finals and hosts France in the semi-finals if they are to reach the final in Paris on July 10. — AFP.