UEFA Nations League: Italy Lose Three Years Unbeaten Record
- Fall 1-2 to majestic Spain at San Siro
BY VICTOR OSOWOCHI – For the first time in three years and 38 matches running, the Italian National football team lost their unbeaten record going down 1-2 to Spain in the semi-finals of the UEFA Nations League on Wednesday night.
The Spaniards thoroughly deserve their victory in an encounter that saw Coach Luis Enrique’s men so magnificent, especially in the first 45 minutes when the game was in the balance.
The Azzurri’s impressive run dates back to 2018 when they last suffered a loss in a 0-1 defeat to Portugal. So, it is Spain who will face Belgium or France at San Siro this weekend confident of claiming their first title since Euro 2012.
In the second half of the match, Spain kept things under control, with their 82 percent ball possession limiting Italy to one unsavable shot. Ferran Torres’ first-half brace proved enough for the visitors who were dominant throughout the game.
Italy hung in there after Bonucci was sent off just before half-time and finally got a lifeline in the 83rd minute when Lorenzo Pellegrini drew one back. However, it was a little too late as Enrique’s men zoomed into Sunday’s final with an imposing 815 passes and 75 percent ball possession to Italy’s 273 passes and 25 percent ball possession during the match.
No doubt, the European champions will be disappointed. But having already won a trophy this year, that may somewhat ease the pains of their defeat. – With Goal.com reports
