Italy captain Gianluigi Buffon preferred to focus on the positives after the Azzurri fell 1-0 to Spain in Madrid in Wednesday’s international friendly.

A goal from Barcelona forward Pedro was the difference between the two national sides that will compete at this summer’s World Cup in Brazil.

“The good news is that in order for Spain to beat us, they have to work very hard,” Buffon said on Rai Sport.

“We fear and respect each other.

“There is a great balance between the two sides, even if Spain still have the edge.”

Spain dominated the encounter at the Vicente Calderon for long stretches.

“Spain have many players with precise technique,” Buffon said.

The good news is that in order for Spain to beat us, they have to work very hard

“Every touch, pass and run is perfect.

“Hence, you have to spend more energy than they do to keep up with them and limit their actions.”

“Unfortunately, when we do have the opportunity to hurt them and push forward, we lack the sharpness necessary to make those opportunities count,” the Juventus goalkeeper added.

Buffon was impressed by the performance of Parma defender Gabriel Paletta.

The Argentinian-born player made his Azzurri debut against Spain and put in a solid performance.

“It’s the first time I’ve played with him,” Buffon said.

“I have to say that he played an extraordinary game.

“After that performance, a lot of people have understood why he has been on the national team radar for a while.

“Paletta has really surprised me because, considering the adversity, he has played a fantastic game.”

Italy play their last warm-up game against Luxembourg on June 4 before starting their World Cup adventure against England in Manaus on June 14.