Marco Verratti pinpoints the consistent Italy identity as the key to their success against Belgium and why they’re ready for Spain in the UEFA EURO 2020 semi-final.
Tonight’s quarter-final in Munich was decided by Nicolò Barella and Lorenzo Insigne goals, before a Romelu Lukaku penalty.
“We are very happy, because we worked hard to reach this objective and we were up against a great team that is one of the contenders for the title,” Verratti told RAI Sport.
“We played open football, stood by our characteristics and had a great performance, so we are more than happy.”
Kevin De Bruyne had been initially a doubt due to a bruised ankle, but was able to play the full match.
“Kevin is a fantastic player, proving himself to be one of the best in his role. We worked as a collective, pressed high, didn’t let Belgium have time on the ball, and that allowed us to create chances as well as limit their scoring opportunities.
“This is a real team victory, we fought from the first to the 90th, and it’ll be another tough test with Spain.”
Verratti highlighted the fact Italy have a very clear identity under Roberto Mancini and that gives them confidence in any situation.
“We have this specific style of football thanks to the coach and always play more or less the same way. We’ll give our best and see where we end up.”