Italy, Mancini: Even before the European Championship triumph, there was no belief

“We need to stay calm, unaffected by the tension I see around us.” Roberto Mancini tried to calm the mood around the Azzurri ahead of the Turkey–Italy match. “Football is made of moments,” the coach told Sky Sport. “On Friday, the game could have changed in the second half, but Belgium deserved the win. We need to give the young players time. I liked Romano — he played a good game, despite mistakes anyone can make.”

“Now against Turkey we have the chance to change something, and some players, because at this level you can’t play four games so quickly. Montella has a very strong team, full of talent; it will be difficult.” Mancini also brushed off pressure on his side: “Pressure after the loss to Belgium? None — it’s a football match. Tomorrow we’ll try to play well and win,” he added, speaking to RaiSport.

“There was no belief even when we won the European Championship; we weren’t considered among the six or seven best. We just need to work and give the young players a bit of time.”