Italy have qualified for the knockout stages of Euro 2016 after just two matches, a feat many pundits would never have predicted pre-tournament with the Azzurri expected to struggle.
Antonio Conte has continuously defied critics with both squad selection and the performance of his players, and has made it known to the press that they wrote Italy off.
“I think very few people would have predicted we would have qualified for the knockout stages after two matches,” he said.
“I think the whole group including myself really feels the burden and responsibility of representing the country, particularly at a tricky time for the country in many respects.”
“I hope these two wins can allow us to have greater confidence, self-esteem and awareness of our ability.”
Goalscoring hero #Eder voted as man of the match vs. #SWE by #Azzurri fans: https://t.co/H2iUVPic7z #VivoAzzurro pic.twitter.com/c7j6ec4FO6
— Italy (@azzurri) June 18, 2016
A major criticism of Conte was his selection of Brazilian-born forward Eder who struck the match-winner for the Italians, a glorious strike after brilliant proactive solo move from a throw-in.
Conte said he always had faith in the Inter Milan striker.
“I choose players with my own eyes. It’s not just Eder [who was criticised], a number of players were questioned in this squad.”
“He didn’t necessarily get a lot of success in terms of success in goals in the second half of the season, but I focus on footballers as men, as individuals. I think that’s very important.”
“If you will remember we were losing 2-1 in Bulgaria and we equalised, that was the first game he played and scored.”
“All he needed to do was to re-discover that bit of physical fitness and pace. Scoring that goal shows he has a level head and is very clinical.”
The Swedes dominated possession particularly in the first-half before Italy grew on top in Toulouse in front of a 30,000 pro-Swede crowd.
Conte said he wants that reversed for future Azzurri performances.
“Everyone was a bit anxious today. I think there were a few skeletons in the closet so to speak. There may have been ghosts of the past that affected their performance.”
“Whether our supporters come from Italy or elsewhere, I want them to put on a blue shirt.”
“When you see other teams all in yellow shirts it’s wonderful. It would be really great to see a wave of blue for the players.”
“There were 9000 fans here today but they were quite dispersed.”
“I want everyone to be involved with the national team. Winning breeds confidence.”
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