ZCZC
BSP-09
FBL-EURO-2020-2021-ITA-TUR-MANCINI
Italy coach Mancini hails ‘important win’ in Euro 2020 opener
ROME, June 12, 2021 (BSS/AFP) – Roberto Mancini hailed Italy’s 3-0 Euro 2020 opening victory over Turkey as “an important win” but warned there is still a long way to go until a possible Wembley final.
“It was important to start well in Rome and I think it’s a satisfaction for the public and for Italians,” said Mancini of the match played at a Stadio Olimpico that was filled to a quarter of its capacity.
“It was a beautiful evening, I hope there are many others, but there are still six more for Wembley.”
Italy failed to qualify for the 2018 World Cup but are now on a 28-match unbeaten run under Mancini.
“We played a good match, even in the first half without being able to score. A great team. There was a lot of help from the crowd.”
BSS/AFP/MSY/1132 hrs