In 122 A.D Romans built a wall in England- it lies in ruins now. On Sunday Emperor Mancini will build another and its up to Southgate’s gladiators to break it down. On Sunday England play Italy in the Euro 2020 final at Wembley, it doesn’t get bigger than this.
The curtain will finally come down on a spectacular tournament. A tournament that saw its fair share of upsets, stunning goals and some remarkable performances. Now it comes down to two teams that deserve their place in the showpiece and will be looking to make their own history. Here’s the breakdown of the Euro 2020 final.
Italy
A remarkable turnaround for a side that failed to qualify for the 2018 World Cup. That seems like a distant memory now under the guidance of Roberto Mancini. They emerged flawlessely from the group stages, winning all three of their games, scoring 7 times while not conceding. They would be given a far sterner test in their next game against Austria. But extra time goals by Federico Chiesa and Matteo Pessina sealed their quarter final spot, despite conceding a late goal.
Heavy hitters Belgium were seen off 2-1 after a resolute defensive display as Italy reverted to the famed ‘Catenaccio‘ tactic in the knockouts. In semi finals despite Spain having more possession, Italy went ahead before Alvaro Moratta scored to take the game to extra time then penalties. Moratta would then miss a decisive spot kick in the shootout as Italy progressed to the Sunday’s final.
Italy are unbeaten in 33 games, last tasting defeat in 2018 as Mancini has restored pride to a nation that was lost when he took over. The Italian identity has been rediscovered. ‘Azzuri‘ have more game to go as they look to win a first European Championship since 1968. Mancini famously led Manchester City to a Premier League title, which may very well be his greatest managerial feat, a win on Sunday will be right up there in the conversation.
Players to watch:
Federico Chiesa, Lorenzo Insigne and Ciro Immoblie.
Recent Euro form:
W, W, W, W, W, W.
England
England had a abysmal last Euro campaign. A knockout defeat against Iceland sent them crashing out resulting in Roy Hodgson’s resignation. Gareth Southgate has come in and moulded the team from the scratch. He led England to World Cup semi finals in Russia and now has the team on cusp of glory at Euros. He has taken England fans out of a nightmare right into a dreamland.
They began Euro 2020 with a 1-0 win over Croatia and despite a poor draw against Scotland progressed to last 16 as group winners. They defeated Germany for the first time since 1966 in a knockout game after Raheem Sterling and Harry Kane both scored. Then Ukraine were thrashed 4-0 to reach the semis. A nervy extra time win over Denmark now sees them one win away from winning the Euros for the first time in their history.
Southgate was deemed as cautious during their group stage run, playing a tight formation despite having an abundance of attacking riches in the team. But the win against Germany was seen as landmark. In their next two games they showed the ability to shift gears when needed. Gareth Southgate’s presence and calm demeanor seems to have rubbed off to the entire nation and not just the team. There is a assuredness when England are on the ball and the team is oozing with confidence so often not associated with the ‘Three Lions’. Now they are close to becoming only the second English side ever to win a major trophy.
Players to watch:
Raheem Sterling, Harry Kane and Jack Grealish.
Recent Euro form:
W, D, W, W, W, W.
The Endgame
Italy have never lost to England in a competitive game at a tournament. Last time these two met at Euros Andrea Pirlo’s winning penalty in the shootout ended England’s campaign. Mancini will need more heroes if his side are to overcome this English side. They have the experience and a grit that suggests they would make life difficult for England.
But this is an English side well versed with handling the pressure although nothing will prepare them for what they will feel when they head out on the pitch on Sunday. The players know they have the chance to go from heroes to legends. Win this final and they will forever be known as history makers. Gareth Southgate has slayed one demon after another- won a penalty shootout, won an Euro opener, beaten Gemany and now made it to the final. One more such heroic effort and football will come home.
Timing:
The final of Euro 2020 between Italy and England will kick off at 12:30 am Monday, 12 July.
Venue:
England’s Wembley stadium will host the match. Almost 60,000 fans will be in attendance.
How to watch:
The game will be telecasted live on Sony Network channels, Sony Ten 2, Sony Ten 3 and streamed on Jio Tv.