Defending champions Spain on Sunday beat Italy 4-0 in the Euro 2012 final to secure an unprecedented third successive major trophy.

The goals were scored by David Silva in the 14th minute, Jordi Alba in the 41st minute, Fernando Torres in the 84th minute and Juan Mata in the 88th.

No previous team has won three major championships in succession.

The Spanish broke the deadlock in the 14th minute as Cesc Fabregas set up Silva, who headed home and all but put the game beyond the Italians in the 41st minute as Alba, outstanding all tournament, collected a superb ball by Xavi and slotted it home.

Thiago Motta’s injury in the 61st minute just after coming on as their third replacement left them with 10 men and Torres and Mata rounded off a facile victory.