Italy pulled off the perfect Italian job in England. England got off to a flying start but the Italians were calm as you like. They controlled the pace of the game. England resorted to negative tactics after going 0-1 up. They sat back and hardly pressed Italy. At one point of time the Azzuri had almost 80% possession and final got a well deserved equaliser. Southgate has wasted the squad depth this England side have. Bringing on players like Sancho and Rashford just for penalties was a horrible decision. They were never on the same wavelength as the rest of the team and that’s what led them to miss the penalties. Take nothing away from Donnarumma who is a very good goalkeeper. Brilliant saves.
– Conrad Barretto, Margao
From not qualifying for the 2018 WC to being crowned EURO 2020 champions, it was a rollercoaster ride for the Azzuri. First 10-20 minutes of the game was completely dominated by England but Italy eventually got into the game. What a brilliant campaign ‘Shawberto Carlos’ has had, one that he’ll remember for a lifetime. The half time team talk definitely proved vital as Italy dominated the majority of the second half. Donnaruma, the successor of Buffon, played a major role in Italy’s title winning campaign.
– Vaughan D’Souza, Navelim
Firstly, well played to the Azzurris. They showed grit and determination throughout the game and even when they were 1-0 down they did not let their shoulders drop. Me being a fan of England it was definitely disappointing for me but Italy too very well deserved to be the champions. Maybe Southgate could have bought in Rashford and Sancho earlier in the second half. The pace that they possess could tire the already tired defenders. Also Grealish could have come on and played the No. 10s role. You can’t expect your sub’s to straight away soak up the pressure during the shootout. Anyway what’s done is done. More success awaits England in the future.
– Kunal Kunkolienkar, Margao
As always whenever the England team reaches a semi final or final of a major tournament they are overhyped. The team came out firing on all cylinders but was poor in the 2nd half and the penalty shootout. Italy deserved to win the Euros this year as they played incredibly well beating the heavyweights. It was a fast end to end game which a neutral loved watching.
– Shashwat Kamat, Porvorim
I was not able to watch the matches from the earlier rounds but I made an attempt to watch the finals. I was happy the Italians won it. I was supporting them for sure having lived in Turin for a couple of months three years ago. They were organized and had technically superior players in midfield. That initial goal in the first four minutes of the match did not faze them. The cup was won by a team that certainly deserved it.
– Keith Creado, Porvorim
I would have liked England to win but they made mistakes in their game plan. After going ahead early in the game they got defensive against a team like Italy. The Italians had a squad that was experienced and technically superior. They did not lose patience and just kept at it and scored a goal. In the second half, the Italians just took over. You cannot expect to have one shot at goal and then expect to win the game. The Italians had way too many experienced players. This English team can be very good in the World Cup next year. Let’s keep our fingers crossed.
– Varun Lobo, Bicohlim
They did it again. Yes, the English Fans “Booed” the Italian anthem. Although I was a Neutral, I was rooting for Italy more than England because of the disgraceful behavior of the English fans throughout the tournament. Even after the Finals they abused Rashford, Sancho & Saka racially on social media after their respective penalty misses. But when they “Dived” their way into the Finals courtesy of Sterling, it was fine for them.
Although I’m an EPL Fan, the actions of the English Fans were condemnable. Congratulations to the Azzuri. They have looked convincing throughout the Euro 2020.
– Omi Omkar, Vasco-Da-Gama
