Italy Falls Flat Against Switzerland in Euro 2024 Exit

Italy exited Euro 2024 with a lackluster performance, losing 2-0 to Switzerland at Berlin’s Olympiastadion. Former England striker Gary Lineker called it the worst Italian team he’s ever seen. This is a stark contrast to Italy’s past successes, including winning their fourth World Cup at this venue in 2006 and the European Championship at Wembley in 2021.

Despite having talented players, Italy lacked the character and intensity of previous squads. Of the team that defeated England in 2021, only Gianluigi Donnarumma, Giovanni di Lorenzo, Nicolo Barella and Federico Chiesa started in the defeat against Switzerland. Former England captain Alan Shearer expressed shock at Italy’s poor performance, highlighting their lack of threat in front of goal.

Luciano Spalletti, who led Napoli to a Scudetto last season, took over as Italy’s coach last year. He admitted his team lacked intensity and couldn’t win the ball back, which exposed their defensive weaknesses. Italy managed only a win against Albania and a draw with Croatia before exiting the tournament. BBC pundit Rio Ferdinand criticized Italy’s performance, suggesting questions would be asked of Spalletti.

After the defeat, Spalletti took responsibility but highlighted the limited time he had with the squad and injuries as challenges. He noted that while he had tried different approaches in training, the team still underperformed. A Swiss journalist sarcastically compared Switzerland to a Ferrari and Italy to a Fiat Panda, a jab Spalletti took in stride. He remained unfazed by the pressure and expressed determination to improve.

Despite the defeat, Spalletti’s confidence and resilience remained evident, much like when he eventually led Napoli to their first title in 33 years.