ITALY TAKES IT TO ROME!
Written by Elizabeth Nyambura on July 12, 2021
Italy won the Euro2020 champions after beating England 3-2 on penalties this Sunday. The match took place at Wembley Stadium where most fans were British and were hoping to win the game in their hometown. The last time England had an International Trophy was the 1966 World Cup.
The game seemed to be in England’s favor in the first half with a goal by defender Luke Shaw. Although England had possession of the ball in the first half, they got a bit comfortable. The most disappointing part was that England did not counter attack in the second half. They lost possession of the ball as well.
On the other side, Italy had a great tactic and gameplay and managed to have an equalizer in the second half by Leonardo Bonucci. Which led both teams into penalty kicks.
Italy was in a tight huddle and England was a loser as their coaching staff picked their penalty takers. But the tension ahead of the shootout was palpable. All that work, and it came down to this.
In preparation to determine the first team to goal Kane and Chiellini met with Kuipers for the toss. Kane picked the end on the first coin flip, and chose the goal in front of the England supporters. Chiellini elected to have Italy go first on the second toss.
Domenico Berardi went first and scored, making Italy lead 1-0. Then Harry Kane equalized the goals to 1-1. Belotti kicks for Italy and Pickford saves the goal. Harry Maguire puts England in the lead with 2-1. Shortly, Bonucci makes an equalizer. Then England loses an advantage by hitting the post by Marcus Rashford. Italy got ahead with the goal administered by Bernardeschi. Then finally Sancho goes up next but the kick is saved by Donnarumma Jorginho who beats Spain and takes Chelsea’s penalties goes up next for Italy but Pickford saves it.
At this point, the game is at 3-2 and Italy is on the lead. Wrapping on the penalties was Bukayo Saka for England. This was a moment to equalize the scores, the goal was saved. That’s how Italy won the Euros
Italy is one of the most successful national teams in the history of football and the World Cup, having won four titles (1934, 1938, 1982, 2006) and appearing in two other finals (1970, 1994), reaching a third place (1990) and a fourth place (1978).
Congratulations Team Italy!
Off onto Euro2021 for now!