Euro Cup News

Euro 2020: “No one believed we could do it,” Roberto Mancini on Italy’s final berth

Italy got the better of Spain in penalties in a high-voltage Euro 2020 semi-final at the Wembley Stadium.

Federico Chiesa opened the scoring for Mancini’s side against the run of play and despite several chances in the first half, Spain had nothing to show for it because of the lack of proper finishing.

However, Alvaro Morata came off the bench to restore parity in the match and force it to extra-time!

It was Morata who ended up missing his penalty along with Dani Olmo that allowed the Italians to book a slot in the final of the European Championship.

Head coach Roberto Mancini is of the opinion that his side has proved the doubters wrong by reaching the final. “Almost no one believed we could do it, and yet we are into the final,” Mancini said after the semi-final win over Spain.

“There are games where you have to suffer,” the Italy head coach added. “They can’t all be as smooth as our progress so far. We knew it would be a tough game. That is why the players and everyone who worked with us over last three years deserve great credit, because it wasn’t easy.”

This will be Italy’s first final appearance in the European Championship since 2012 when they were routed 4-0 by Spain. The Azzurri are still searching for their second European title since 1968. “We are delighted to have provided this wonderful evening’s entertainment to the Italian people.

We still have one game to go,” Mancini said.

The former Manchester City coach was also highly respectful of Spain and the effort put in by Luis Enrique’s side. He wanted to take his hat off to La Roja for the brilliant tournament that they’ve had.

“In terms of ball possession Spain are the best around,” the 56-year-old added. “They caused us problems, we had to dig in when we needed to, and create opportunities where we could. We wanted to reach the final and kept trying until the end.

Penalties are a lottery, but I want to take my hat off to Spain, they are a wonderful team.”
Italy are currently on a 33-game unbeaten streak under Robert Mancini which is already a national record. They’d be desperate to make it 34 in a row with a win over England in the final.

About the Author


Written by DafaNews

DafaNews brings you the most highlighted news in the world of Sports. It serves you up-to-date matches, scores, live streams, fantasy games and quizzes. Our news covers India's prestigious leagues and events – Premier League, Pro Kabbadi League, Cricket World Cup and many more. Follow DafaNews on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter,Telegram and Youtube for more updates.

Related Post
Share
Published by
DafaNews

Recent Posts

“Never expected a very easy run” – Gautam Gambhir reflects on his tenure as coach after IND vs NZ 2024 Test series defeat

India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir has admitted that he never expected a very easy run… Read More

October 31, 2024

Probably has a lot to do with playing on flat wickets in T20 – Gautam Gambhir on decline of good defensive technique in Test cricket

India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir feels T20 cricket has led to the downfall of a… Read More

October 31, 2024

India needs Mumbai Test win before Australia tour – Gautam Gambhir

Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir feels the Rohit Sharma-led team desperately needs to win the… Read More

October 31, 2024

I cannot say just the batters have let us down – Gautam Gambhir feels everyone should take responsibility for series loss against New Zealand

India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir refused to blame the batters after the team’s 2-0 series… Read More

October 31, 2024

It was insane – Bronny James after scoring his first NBA bucket

Los Angeles Lakers rookie Bronny James was on cloud nine after he managed to score… Read More

October 31, 2024

I’m happy with my team’s performance: Mohun Bagan SG head coach Jose Molina after win against Hyderabad FC

Mohun Bagan Super Giant head coach Jose Molina was delighted with the team’s performance after… Read More

October 31, 2024