With a game against Switzerland on the horizon of Euro 2024, Italy remains steady with an unwavering spirit. The Azzurri fought until the end in the group stage, securing an advancement into the Round of 16 by placing second place in Group B. However, it is essential to note that Luciano Spalletti’s Azzurri receives irrational criticism for three inconsistent performances, particularly against Spain and Croatia, where remnants of an all-out defensive shape seemed to take form.
Blockade breakdown
Italy’s infamous door-bolt system is an old-school defensive technique reserved for specific rosters that lack the proper means to attack. Therefore, the squad utilizes a blockade to secure a draw in hopes of having a prayer during penalty shootouts. Undoubtedly, that was not the case against Croatia.
“When we conceded, we started playing better,” Spalletti , referring to Luka Modrić’s goal that gave Croatia the lead; seconds after Gianluigi Donnarumma denied his penalty kick.
Instantaneously, Italy’s gears switched. Suddenly, it became a knockout match. With 33 minutes plus stoppage time remaining in the 2nd half, Italy performed superior because timidity turned to urgency. At major tournaments, the kryptonite of the group stage is when teams are aware that a particular result will suffice based on points or goal differential. This psychological aspect distinguishes the group stage from the knockout phase as a wholly different tournament in and of itself.
Luciano Spalletti, known for his tactical acumen, shared his strategic decision-making process. For the first time at Euro 2024, the Italian boss implemented his signature 3-4-1-2 (which later transitioned into a 3-5-2), a strategy frequently employed in Serie A. The punditocracy has placed immense pressure on Spalletti to maintain a consistent strategy. However, this expectation needs to be revised. Spalletti is a tactician who adapts to the opponent on game day. Therefore, assuming Italy…
Source link : https://worldsoccertalk.com/uefa-euro/dogged-italy-must-adapt-to-find-further-euro-2024-success/
Author : Ardalan Pourvali
Publish date : 2024-06-28 22:00:00
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