Gigi Buffon warns Italy “historically have problems” in the second game of a major tournament.
The Azzurri beat Belgium 2-0 in their first match of Euro 2016, but the captain is urging caution ahead of the Sweden game tomorrow.
“Historically, we have problems in the second game,” Buffon reminded journalists in the pre-match Press conference.
Gigi Buffon warns Italy “historically have problems” in the second game of a major tournament.
The Azzurri beat Belgium 2-0 in their first match of Euro 2016, but the captain is urging caution ahead of the Sweden game tomorrow.
“Historically, we have problems in the second game,” Buffon reminded journalists in the pre-match Press conference.
“We’re here to solve them. Our start was reassuring, even we probably didn’t expect that. With Nordic sides, if you play a top game you can win, if you play well you can draw and if you play badly you’ll lose: they don’t give you anything.
“The BBC? Among all the defensive units I’ve played with and shared experiences with, I’ve definitely always had a special relationship with them.
“It’s the most important ingredient for us to get to, if not the end, then as far as possible. I’ve been playing with Leo [Bonucci], Giorgio [Chiellini] and Andrea [Barzagli] for years, we’re a proven defence made up of lads who know each other well.
“That can make things a bit easier.
“Bonucci? His qualities are obvious, he’s the defensive playmaker of the team. He’s good with his feet and that allows him to take some risks and make some hard plays.
“He has the courage and personality to play on the edge. In the last few years the defensive side of his game has improved so much.”
The last time the Azzurri face Sweden at a major tournament was Euro 2004, when Zlatan Ibrahimovic scored a last-minute equaliser with an audacious backheel flick.
“I don’t have great memories of that goal, though I appreciated the technical skill later on.
“At the time, Zlatan was still a young talent, we didn’t yet understand what kind of career he’d have. In the last 12 years he’s proven his capabilities time and time again.
“He’s already repeated that goal three or four times, it’s one of his specialities.
“I fear that he’s one of those players who can change the fortunes of the teams they play for.
“Sweden aren’t just Ibrahimovic, but it’s clear that talent like his, as well as his conviction and his awareness of being a champion isn’t found in the others.”