Portugal Under-21 Coach Rui Jorge admits “we had luck” to avoid defeat with Italy, but promised not to stitch the Azzurrini up.
In tonight’s 0-0 European Under-21 Championship draw, Gigi Di Biagio’s side had numerous scoring opportunities and hit the woodwork.
Portugal Under-21 Coach Rui Jorge admits “we had luck” to avoid defeat with Italy, but promised not to stitch the Azzurrini up.
In tonight’s 0-0 European Under-21 Championship draw, Gigi Di Biagio’s side had numerous scoring opportunities and hit the woodwork.
“They are a strong team, we already knew that. We knew that we would have difficulties in the game and we did have some luck today, but are happy with the result,” the tactician told Rai Sport.
“They have some very strong individuals like Andrea Belotti, Domenico Berardi and Lorenzo Crisetig, so we expected it to be tough.”
If Portugal draw with Sweden in the final Group B game on Wednesday, then Italy’s result against England will become irrelevant.
The Italian reporters asked Rui Jorge to pledge he’d go all out to beat Sweden and not ‘stitch up’ the Azzurrini.
“It’s not fair. We are here with the aim of being a very good team, we always search for the victory and will do the same against Sweden.
"Our team plays positive football and will do that against Sweden.”