Three years ago, the Italian national team experienced one of the most difficult periods in its history. While France finished in Russia for the title of world champion, the Italians did not even participate in the championship. At that time, coach Roberto Mancini gained confidence and in two years pulled the team to victory in the Euro.
It was a complicated time for Italian football, the stifling atmosphere accompanied the national team before each match, the Italian media and fans closely watched the events around the national team. Nevertheless, even veterans such as Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini did not end their national team career and, three years after the World Championships in Russia, were able to raise a trophy for European champions at Wembley on Sunday.
It was the stopper couple, who played dozens of matches in the national team together and have known each other from Juventus for years, that was one of the keys to winning this year’s Euro.
“Since the end of May, I have felt that there is something magical in the air,” rejoiced Captain Chiellini, returning to the moment when the Italian team also closed into a bubble ahead of the upcoming Euro. “We were more confident with every match and now we are legends,” added defense partner Leonardo Bonucci.
He successfully entered the match twice. First, in the 67th minute, after a corner kick, he pushed the ball into the net and equalized to 1: 1, then in the penalty shootout for 2: 1 for England, the 34-year-old defender did not hesitate and returned Italy to the game.
After his penalty, none of the English changed their attempt and the Italians could celebrate. “It’s the best evening of my career,” Bonucci rejoiced.
In two years, the Italians returned to prominence. “We deserve it. Only at our age can we appreciate what we have achieved,” Chiellini smirked.
