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#3 Italy record 8th successive clean sheet in all competitions
When you look back on the Italian teams over the years, defensive solidity immediately springs to mind. The Azzurri have produced some of the greatest defenders of all time and it goes without saying that keeping things tight at the back has been the foundation of their success in the past.
Under Roberto Mancini, it's been more of the same. The last time they conceded a goal was in October 2020 when Netherlands midfielder Donny van de Beek scored an equalizer in a 1-1 draw in the UEFA Nations League.
Euro 2020 began in similar fashion, as they defended commendably and bullied the threat posed by Turkey with consummate ease. Giorgio Chiellini's reaction after making a last-ditch challenge in the dying moments of the game summed up Italy's grit and determination to keep a clean sheet regardless of the situation.
#2 Turkey took their foot off the gas in the second half
While Italy dominated proceedings in the first half, they failed to create too many clear-cut chances, as Turkey looked solid at the back. However, in the second half, Senol Gunes' side threw too many bodies forward and paid the price for it, as Italy found pockets of room inside their penalty area to punish them emphatically.
As the game went on, Turkey's indiscipline also came to the fore, as they made a series of rash challenges after letting the game slip in the second half. They face Wales and Switzerland in the games ahead and will need to regroup immediately after being put to the sword in the opening game of Euro 2020.
#1 Italy return to the big stage in style
In what has been a long road back to the top for Italy, they capped off their return to a major tournament with a magnificent all-round display. The Azzurri have improved tremendously under Roberto Mancini and showed that they could be a force to be reckoned with at Euro 2020 by recording a convincing victory in front of their home fans.
It was the perfect display from the Italians, as they took control of the game in the opening exchanges and reaped the rewards in the second half after a flurry of attacks. They scored three goals on the night and recorded a clean sheet, while their midfielders controlled the game in the center of the park to play Turkey off the park.
Mancini has awakened a sleeping giant and overseen a remarkable transformation of a squad that needed surgery, but only time will tell how Italy fare in the games ahead. The early signs, though, are incredibly positive.
Also Read: 5 surprise contenders for the Player of the Tournament award at Euro 2020
