Turkey coach Senol Gunes expects a ‘hard fought’ Euro 2020 opener against Italy. ‘I believe Turkey can win.’

The opening fixture of the tournament is at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome tomorrow at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT).

“Roberto Mancini knows Turkish football well, having been the coach of Galatasaray, and he has many talented players at his disposal,” said Gunes in his press conference.

They are in Group A along with Switzerland and Wales.

“We are not the favourites to top this group, but I would love to reach the Final and play it against this Italy. Our journey in international football really started with the 2002 World Cup semi-finals and everyone would love to win, but I’m sure we will continue to learn from this tournament.

“We know Italy’s strengths, but also their weaknesses. We are well aware of Italy’s prestige and tradition, qualifying for almost all these competitions. Nonetheless, it’ll be hard fought in technical, tactical and physical terms. I want to see the quality of my players on show.

“It is also good having players who are in Serie A clubs, as they know how things work in Italy and the approach these teams take. This is a game between two strong teams and I believe Turkey can win.

“We mustn’t lose concentration, otherwise there could be real problems. The first and last games of the group are fundamental and they can change the balance of the whole situation.”

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