Not many games can be defined by the different acts opposing center-backs can partake in. Jérémy Jacquet dominated whenever he had to defend in front of him, whilst France only found spaces in the second half when Alessandro Bastoni defended in wider spots. A piece of free-kick magic got them in front, only for the Italian to […]

Italy finally found their rhythm. With fluid rotations, sharp combinations and constant movement between the lines, the Azzurri overwhelmed Turkey from the opening whistle, producing their most convincing performance of the campaign as short passing and positional interchanges drove a commanding victory. Tactical analysis and match report by Mustafa Hassan. Roberto Mancini’s Italy lined up in a […]

As Mika Godts broke through on his inauguration to the Belgian national team, Roberto Mancini cut a lonely figure as Italy looks a long way from breaking out of their troubles.   Tactical analysis and match report by Joel Parker.  Humiliation in Bosnia saw an inquest like no other.  Gattuso axed, Pep discussed, Maldini the technical […]

Despite struggling to break down Bosnia & Herzegovina’s mid-block pressing, Italy were able to take the lead early in this game. Things turned after Alessandro Bastoni’s red card though, and Italy were left holding on for dear life against a barrage of crosses into the box. They eventually conceded the equalizer and went on to […]

Italy had plenty of possession in the first half of this game against a 5-4-1 low block from Northern Ireland but struggled to create chances with their right-side attack and rotations. Eventually, Sandro Tonali’s half-volley from the edge of the box put them ahead though, and it was comfortable for the Italians after that, with […]

Italy scored early and seemed in control in their 3-5-2 system against a passive Norway press. However, Norway became more aggressive in the second half and gained momentum against a fading Italy side, before Erling Haaland left Italy reeling with two goals in two minutes. Tactical analysis and match report by Josh Manley. We decided to […]

In a rollercoaster of emotions and defensive mistakes, Italy secured a decisive victory to keep their hopes alive for a spot in the next World Cup. Beyond the three points, this match should raise more than a few question marks about the system and some of the players deployed tonight, in order to avoid further […]

Germany dominated the first half of this game with their aggressive pressing and their ability to exploit the space between Italy’s defense and midfield, earning them a three-goal lead at half-time. A tighter Italian press in the second half saw them come back into the game, but the deficit was insurmountable in the end. Tactical […]

Italy enjoyed a good start with Sandro Tonali’s early goal, and defended diligently in their 5-3-2 shape in the first half. Julian Nagelsmann’s half-time changes made an impact though, and Germany eventually prevailed, aided by an energetic pressing game to limit Italy’s attacking threat. Tactical analysis and match report by Josh Manley. We decided to make […]

Cambiaso and Retegui put the last touches in the net after Italy drew an artistic tableau from the back to the front line. Lorenzo Pelligrini red card was a stab, as it killed his national team momentum, leading to a draw. A stalemate with no one was able to attain chechmate.   Tactical analysis and […]