Il Corriere dello Sport analyses four key factors that led Italy from a shameful Euro exit against Switzerland to an impressive 3-1 win over France on Friday.
Luciano Spalletti’s Italy are making headlines after a surprising 3-1 win over France on Friday. Il Corriere dello Sport analysed the four ‘key’ steps that allowed the Azzurri to win in Paris only two months after an EURO 2024 elimination at the hands of Switzerland.
The 4 keys that led to Italy’s comeback against France
First, according to Corriere dello Sport, Gravina’s trust in Spalletti was crucial after both refused to resign in July. Spalletti understood his errors and where he had to improve and was determined to bounce back after a disappointing Euro elimination. The 65-year-old didn’t want to quit with such a big disappointment, especially after winning Serie A with Napoli only a year earlier.
Gigi Buffon also played a key role. The former goalkeeper, the Azzurri’s delegation chief, has helped Spalletti manage the group and been a fundamental link between the coach and the players. Spalletti has admitted that he put too much pressure on the players during the Euros, and Buffon contributed to re-establishing a solid relationship between the CT and the players.
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Of course, there are tactical explanations as well. Spalletti has decided to permanently switch to a 3-5-2 system while, during the Euros, he wanted the Azzurri to build up with three defenders and defend with four. It was too complicated and ultimately confusing for the group. Italy were more practical and concrete than France, and Spalletti’s new approach immediately paid off.
Lastly, young players have been crucial, notes Corriere dello Sport. Samuele Ricci made a convincing debut as a starter in Paris. Andrea Cambiaso, Destiny Udogie and Sandro Tonali contributed to Italy’s win as well, and Spalletti’s decision to call just 23 players for games against France and Israel has proved to be wise as all footballers feel involved in the project and know they can get playing time from one moment to another.