Zaccagni scores in the 98th minute and takes Italy to the round of 16: what a dramatic final!
Italy wins a place in the Euro 2024 round of 16 with a thrilling last-second equalizer against Croatia. In a difficult match, Zaccagni finds the goal to make it 1-1 in the 98th minute, saving the Azzurri from an early exit. Croatia, ahead with a goal from Modric in the 55th minute and penalized by a penalty saved by Donnarumma shortly before, suffered an atrocious mockery. We talk about it with the de sport chief The Sardinian Union, Enrico Piliawho commented on the incredible evening in Leipzig and declared: “Italy moves forward because of what it has shownthat is, she goes forward from third demonstrating mediocre football. A lot of effort yesterday and if there hadn’t been that long recovery, we would be here dealing with the best third-placed teams in the championship in a truly complex group.”
What’s right and what’s wrong?
Enrico Pilia analyzes the pros and cons of this European adventure of the Azzurri and declares: “Spalletti dressed up as Ranieri, who made a mistake in the season just ended with the choice of men to field, but with the changes he changed more matches. The national team coach has a vast choice of champions to evaluate and choose and he managed to make a turning point with the arrival of Zaccagni. This means that we are trying a bit in the dark, looking for the big star like last night“. Spalletti’s team will face the Switzerland Saturday at 6pm, but the path to reach the round of 16 was anything but simple. After a balanced and well-played first half, Italy went behind thanks to a decisive action by Modricimmediately afterwards Donnarumma’s miracle on a penalty.
Determination (little) and disorder
The Azzurri fought with generosity and determination, even if often in a disorderly way. Spalletti’s substitutionswith the inclusion of Chiesa and Retegui, they gave a shock, but the goal didn’t arrive. When all seemed lost, here is the magic moment: Calafiori combines with Frattesi and serves Zaccagni, who with an angled right recalls Del Piero’s famous goal from 2006. It is Zaccagni’s first goal for the national team, and it comes at the most crucial moment, giving Italy a draw and access to the round of 16.
Croatia cries at the end
Croatia, who had come close to doubling their number several times, he sees his qualification snatched at the last breath. An exciting duel in midfield between Barella and Modric characterized much of the match, with chances on both sides. Donnarumma once again proved decisive, but the real apotheosis came with Zaccagni’s goal. The Azzurri are now looking ahead with confidence, ready for the match against Switzerland in Berlin. The European dream continues, thanks to a goal that will go down in the history of Italian football.
Interview by Paola Pilia
Caffè Corretto dated 06.25.2024
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