Back to the International Newsfeed

Italy Again Confound Critics with No-Nonsense Approach That Is Reaping Rewards

Italy came into their Euro 2016 game against Sweden knowing that it would be a different test than the one they passed against Belgium in Group E on Monday.

The Belgians and their high-octane attack were going to look to play on the front foot, allowing holes for the Italians to play through a makeshift defensive line that was missing three players due to injury.

The Swedes, on the other hand, weren't going to press as far up. The Italians were going to have to do the one thing they are weakest at in this tournament—break down an opposing defence in possession.