Salvatore Sirigu insists Italy are ‘more upset at how it happened’ rather than the end of their world record unbeaten run, as they face Belgium for third place in the Nations League today.
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The Azzurri had been unbeaten in 37 matches, a new all-time world record for international teams, going back three years to October 2018.
That was terminated by a 2-1 Nations League semi-final defeat to Spain, with Leonardo Bonucci sent off during the first half.
“We are happy to have had such a long run, but it’s not the most important thing. We want to get back on track and not make a drama out of it,” Sirigu told RAI Sport.
Because of that defeat, Italy face Belgium for third place this afternoon, whereas France and Spain go head-to-head for the Nations League trophy tonight at San Siro.
“The coach would’ve been more than happy to continue the streak and play the Final, but the truth is we are more upset at how it happened rather than the fact of a defeat.
“We won the Euros during that long run and can continue building on that with new objectives going forward.”
Italy are top of their 2022 World Cup qualifying group and face an imminent showdown with Switzerland next month.