Feature: Italy shocks soccer world at Euro 2020

2021-06-21 13:35:44 GMT2021-06-21 21:35:44(Beijing Time) Xinhua English

By Sportswriter Yao Youming

BEIJING, June 21 (Xinhua) -- Italy shocked the world of soccer after entering the knockout stage of the ongoing UEFA Euro 2020 as the Group A winner on Sunday.

In addition to their three wins in a row, the Azzurri surprised the soccer world by departing from traditional tactics of counterattack.

MANCINI: A DETERMINED REFORMER

Roberto Mancini won two Italian Serie A trophies in his player career, representing Sampdoria and Lazio. However, he had no chance of shining at any major events as an Italian international.

When he was appointed as the head coach of the Azzurri after the team failed to enter the 2018 FIFA World Cup, the man who had few national team genes had the desire and will to reform.

Mancini abandoned traditional counterattacking tactics before sharing his experiences and positive tactics in Inter Milan and Manchester city to his players. When he started his coaching career in the national team in 2018, he was trying to rebuild the confidence of his team through clashes against the weaker teams.

Compared to his predecessors, Mancini has called up more footballers from the mid-table or even lower teams in Italian league, including Rome and Torino FC.

RISING YOUNG STARS

Many veterans quit as new faces joined the Italy squad. During the past three years, the 56-year-old had selected over 60 players into Italy national team, building a team almost without weaknesses.

Nicolo Barella, the 2020-21 season Italian Serie A winner, succeed Andrea Pirlo's style as a midfielder.

Leonardo Spinazzola took over Paolo Maldini's position as one of the greatest left backs.

Mancini put almost all the bench players on the court in the 1-0 win over Wales in the closing game of the group stage at the Euro 2020.

With some experienced veterans and rising stars, the Azzurri was one of the hottest title contenders.

Mancini's side haven't lost a single game in their last 30 matches. What's more, they haven't conceded goals in this Euro 2020 campaign. They have the chance to break Vittorio Pozzo's record of 30 unbeaten games when they play the last 16 round.

Should they succeed doing so, Mancini's team will probably face Belgium in the quarterfinals. It should be a tough game, and also a challenge for the Azzurri's defenders. Enditem

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