Thiago Alcantara scored a first-half hat trick as Spain beat Italy 4-2 on Tuesday to win the European Under-21 championship for a second consecutive time.

Spain captain Thiago opened the scoring at Jerusalem's Teddy Stadium with a header in the sixth minute, before Ciro Immobile equalized for Italy four minutes later.

Thiago restored Spain's lead in the 31st minute and the Barcelona midfielder scored his third from the penalty spot in the 38th. Midfielder Isco sealed the win in the 66th with another penalty.

Fabio Borini pulled one back for Italy in the 79th minute.

The win means Spain retains the trophy won in Denmark two years ago.