Before analysing the Italian national team’s journey so far, it is worth taking a closer look at last night’s match. It was a gruelling encounter for Roberto Mancini’s men, who faced a Dutch side packed with international stars such as Virgil van Dijk, Frenkie de Jong, Memphis Depay and many more players from some of Europe’s top clubs. However, this high standard did not intimidate the Italian players, who managed to impose their style of play for long stretches of the match thanks, among other things, to the excellent performances of Nicolò Barella and Lorenzo Pellegrini, who scored the goal that put Italy ahead in the 16th minute of the first half. Shortly afterwards, the Dutch side managed to equalise through a goal from Donny van de Beek, a recent signing for Manchester United.
There were no further goals in the second half. Both teams had dangerous chances, but neither was converted effectively. This is precisely where one of the main concerns of many Italian fans lies: a lack of clinical finishing. It is a problem that had already been evident against Poland and which resurfaced in this match.
The striker position is filled by top-class players such as Ciro Immobile, the 2020 Golden Boot winner, Andrea Belotti and Francesco Caputo. However, none of them have managed to consistently replicate for the national team the form they show at their respective clubs. There is also keen anticipation for the return of Nicolò Zaniolo, one of the major absentees due to a serious injury.
One of the most positive aspects for Italy was undoubtedly the performance of the players who came off the bench. Players such as Manuel Locatelli and Moise Kean brought freshness, energy and dynamism, partly due to their youth. Similarly, the introduction of Alessandro Florenzi proved crucial thanks to his experience and the large number of matches he has played for the Italian national team.
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The progress of the Italian national team’s goalkeeper also deserves a special mention, as he has become an increasingly key figure both in the Azzurri jersey and for his club. Gianluigi Donnarumma once again stood out with a number of top-class saves. Many thought that Gianluigi Buffon’s retirement would leave a huge void in Italy’s goal, but reality has proven quite the opposite. Gigio has steadily improved to establish himself as one of the world’s best goalkeepers and will undoubtedly be one of Italy’s most important players in major international competitions.
Taking stock of the situation, we can say that the Italian national team is doing a great job. The draw against the Netherlands extended their unbeaten run to nineteen consecutive matches, one of the best runs in the national team’s recent history.
For all these reasons, there are grounds for optimism ahead of the upcoming Euro. The return of injured players, the steady development of young talents and the experience of the more seasoned players could provide Italy with the perfect balance to compete at the highest level and aim to play a leading role in the tournament.
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