Following a dramatic penalty shootout, Italy managed to book its place in the Euro 2020 final, where they’ll be facing England on their own turf at Wembley.
The road to the grand finale was definitely a tough one – particularly in the knockout stages – but Roberto Mancini’s men certainly earned their ticket after some grueling battles against the likes of Belgium and Spain.
Whilst most of the Azzurri stars have impressed on the pitch, some managed to shine more brightly than others, and we’ll pick out the best five performances from Italy thus far in the tournament.
5- Gianluigi Donnarumma
After a turbulent end to his time at Milan, some expected the Paris Saint Germain bound goalkeeper to be distracted by his transfer move.
Nonetheless, Gigio was solid and composed throughout every match he played, almost never putting a foot wrong – although his passing abilities remain underwhelming to say the least.
The 22-year-old only conceded three goals in the tournament – including one from the spot – and was one of the best performers against both Belgium and Spain with some highlight reel saves against the likes of Kevin De Bruyne and Dani Olmo.
This angle of Gianluigi Donnarumma's save ? pic.twitter.com/Ho2bCmjsF9
— International Champions Cup (@IntChampionsCup) July 6, 2021
4- Giorgio Chiellini
Despite leaving the pitch injured in the first half against Switzerland, and then being unavailable for the next two encounters, the captain returned just in time to expertly lead Italy in their crucial clashes against Belgium and Spain.
The 36-year-old put on a commanding display to deny the terrifying Romelu Lukaku, as he kept him at bay for the entire match.
Perhaps he was at fault when his Juventus teammate, Alvaro Morata, escaped him to score La Roja’s equalizer, but it must be noted that the Italian defense had to absorb the opposition’s pressure for most of the 120 minutes, and another side could have conceded many more.
Leonardo Bonucci is 34.
Giorgio Chiellini is 36.Still the best centre-back pairing in the world for Bastian Schweinsteiger. Like fine wine… ? pic.twitter.com/U1fIs1d43S
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) July 2, 2021
3- Leonardo Spinazzola
Prior to the tournament, some questioned whether the Roma wingback would be able to fit in a four-man defensive line, but his sublime performances provided a decisive answer.
The 28-year-old was always present to support the Azzurri’s attacks with his menacing runs, dazzling dribbles and dangerous crosses, but would always sprint back to fulfill his defensive duties.
Unfortunately for the left-back and the entire nation of Italy, he suffered from a Achilles tendon injury that would see him out of action for several months, and had to leave the pitch against Belgium heartbroken.
Leonardo Spinazzola getting so much love and respect from his Italy teammates the day after an injury appears to have ended his tournament early ?
(?: @Vivo_Azzurro)pic.twitter.com/So0835ejLL
— B/R Football (@brfootball) July 3, 2021
2- Federico Chiesa
At the beginning of the tournament, Mancini’s attacking trio consisted of Domenico Berardi, Ciro Immobile and Lorenzo Insigne, and this has been the case until the round of 16.
Nonetheless, the young Juventus winger seized the opportunity against Austria, as he came off the bench to break the deadlock in extra-time, forcing the manager to hand him a spot in his starting XI.
The 23-year-old would then score another shocking goal against Spain in the semi finals, proving to be the team’s X-factor with his terrifying runs and fabulous shots on goal.
Star of the Match in the #EURO2020 semifinal: Federico Chiesa ? pic.twitter.com/MyNMPM6TfG
— B/R Football (@brfootball) July 6, 2021
1- Jorginho
Consistency wins the day. The Chelsea midfielder hasn’t always been on the shortlist for the man of the match awards, but his displays were always vital for the team.
The Italo-Brazilian interprets the Regista role better than anyone else at the moment, making the team ticks with his simple yet effective passing, while also providing cover for the backline.
The 29-year-old has been omni-present for Italy throughout the tournament – even in the least important match against Wales – which proves his vast importance in Mancini’s tactical scheme.
Oh, and his ice-cold spot kick sent his adopted nation to Sunday’s final.
Jorginho's nickname among his team-mates is 'Radio' for the way he directs Roberto Mancini's side and constantly talks to his Azzurri pals from the midfield engine room. pic.twitter.com/wyQTV1Je8P
— Frank Khalid (@FrankKhalidUK) July 8, 2021