Euro 2021 Day 1 Game Thread: Italy v. Turkey
- Thread starter Morgan's Magic Snowplow
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Under's been the only player with any real spark at all, which does raise the "why didn't he start though?" question.
Gotta say I’ve been impressed with Italy , outstanding. Great movement, high tempo keeping their shape.
Fake edit: It didn’t feel dirty when they wore white so Buffon could wear blue for the only time.
Yes, Turkey was a team that came into the tournament and Italy has completely outclassed them in every phase of the game. Really impressive start, I was dismissive of them before but they look like a real contender.
According to The Guardian's minute-by-minute match report, this is the first time Italy has ever scored three goals in a game at the Euros. Huh.
Mancini has something going on with Italy , 3 goals up and Italy still pressing Turkey goal keeper.
Italy look strong. Sometimes in international football its not about having the most talent, its about having enough talent plus a functional tactical system and a group of guys who don't hate each other.
This Italian side looks different from previous incarnations - much more offensive-minded, more athletic, less inclined to go slow or backwards to try to run a set piece. I want to see the Germans, the French, and the Spanish but this Azzuri team looks pretty good.
The problem with these Azzuri is that the central trio - Bonucci, Chiellini, & Jorginho - are slow, slower, and slowest. Teams with speed up top will exploit that by targeting the space behind the FBs, and putting those 3 into some foot races.
Obviously, those are also 3 really really intelligent players, so they know how to position themselves well, and Locatelli can cover ground and break up play very well. Mancini can also keep the FBs at home, but that blunts the attack and will turn things into more classic Italian approach. That makes them a hard out even if they are outmatched.
Obviously, those are also 3 really really intelligent players, so they know how to position themselves well, and Locatelli can cover ground and break up play very well. Mancini can also keep the FBs at home, but that blunts the attack and will turn things into more classic Italian approach. That makes them a hard out even if they are outmatched.
The passes in the buildup to the Insigne goal were beautiful. Like everyone knew where everyone else would be