Giorgio Chiellini admits Spain are Italy’s “bogey team” after being knocked out by them in the past three European Championships.
The Azzurri face Vicente Del Bosque’s side on Monday in the Last 16 of Euro 2016, bringing back memories of defeat in the final in 2012.
“Spain have been our bogey team since 2008,” Chiellini admitted.
Giorgio Chiellini admits Spain are Italy’s “bogey team” after being knocked out by them in the past three European Championships.
The Azzurri face Vicente Del Bosque’s side on Monday in the Last 16 of Euro 2016, bringing back memories of defeat in the final in 2012.
“Spain have been our bogey team since 2008,” Chiellini admitted.
“The beginning of their golden period coincided with their win over us in Vienna in 2008. It was only in Kiev that we weren’t able to give them a game, we hadn’t been able to recover from our game against Germany.
“In all the others we saw more balanced games decided by incidents. Twice we went out on penalties [2008 and the 2013 Confederations Cup]. Indeed, in Fortaleza in the Confederations Cup we deserved to win.
“That’s how the game will be on Monday, I see it being balanced where details can make all the difference. There’s mutual respect, and every game is beautiful.
“It’s a shame that it’s in the second round, but it’ll be challenging.”
The Juventus defender was then asked how Italy can overcome La Roja, and pointed to his defensive colleagues.
“I did an interview with UEFA before we came here, where I emphasised that defence was Italy’s strong point.
“We’ve been playing together for years, we don’t just do our job well but we give security to our teammates around us.
“We’re aware of that double job we have to do, and the responsibility we have toward others. There’s no defender in the world who can do well without the help of the other four.
“We know how hard it’ll be, but our strength is our humility. It led us to beating Belgium and Sweden, which represented a small surprise. No-one expected Italy.
“We’d been designated as sacrificial lambs, some even said we’d already be home by the 27th. Instead we’re here.
“Now we meet a team which has quality, which is almost unbeatable on paper, but I’m sure that with a prudent game and by putting our qualities on show we can do well.”
Chiellini has a degree in economics from the University of Turin, so was inevitably asked about the UK’s decision to leave the European Union.
“It’s a story which shocked everyone this morning,” the defender admitted.
“Yesterday we went to sleep thinking that Britain would remain in the EU. Unfortunately that didn’t happen, and I think the biggest concern is the domino effect that this choice could cause.
“I don’t think it’ll change the economy, the only concern is a referendum in other states. I’m sorry that, having worked hard to create Europe, this vote is a symbol of the discontent felt across Europe.
“We should come together, and look for a political solution for these problems.
“A referendum in Italy? I’m not convinced that Italy would support leaving Europe. When there’s discontent you vote for change, even without definitive plans and I think that’s what has happened in England.
“I’ve read so many things. It happened in such a short time and there’s sorrow for Britain’s exit from the European Union.
“Maybe it won’t change much, but it’s a bad signal from such an important nation.”