The Italian national football team’s 3-3 draw against Germany in the Nations League quarterfinals has sparked a mixed response from the Italian press. Italy struggled significantly in the first half but mounted an impressive comeback in the second, leaving fans and journalists with contrasting emotions.
A Tale of Two Halves
La Stampa summarized the match with the statement: “Honor is saved, but the problems remain.” The newspaper acknowledged Italy’s remarkable comeback from 3-0 down but emphasized that concerns about the teamâs overall strength persist.
Press Reactions
- Gazzetta dello Sport: “In the first half, we were swept away by the Germans. We got back up and saved our honor, but the feeling remains that the big teams from the Old Continent (France also beat us at San Siro in November) are still a step above us for now.”
- La Stampa: “The honor is saved, but the problems remain. The Azzurri’s comeback in Dortmund, in which they came from 3-0 down to 3-3 after a nightmarish first half, avoids the worst test for Spalletti’s national team and postpones any reflection until June.”
- Corriere della Sera: “The first half is simply unworthy of the tradition of epic duels between Italy and Germanyâthe Azzurri should be ashamed of themselves. There are two Italys on that crazy night in Westphalia: the discouraging first half, in which we were overwhelmed and humiliated by Germany, and the combative and courageous second half. The result is a proud and angry draw, which is not enough to reach the Nations League final and should give Spalletti deep pause. The coach’s plan failed miserably.”
- Corriere dello Sport: “In the first half, the Azzurri were simply a nightmare, throwing away the semifinal with the utmost superficiality. After three goals, the Germans thought they had won the match. The Italians at least tried to salvage their honor and managed a blatant yet useless draw. Spalletti’s team still needs to grow up.”
- La Repubblica: “A mad Italy manages to draw after a terrible humiliation. Spalletti averts a defeat after one of the worst performances in the history of the Italian national team, which was already crushed by the first-leg defeat at San Siro. Thankfully, Italy wakes up in the second half, but the metamorphosis isn’t enough for victory.”
- La Stampa (Player Analysis): “Goretzka is the master of the midfield, sinking the weak Italian defense. It is no coincidence that Germany lost its bearings after his arrival.”
Conclusion
While the 3-3 draw against Germany shows resilience and fighting spirit, it also exposes the weaknesses of the Italian team. The press remains skeptical about Italy’s ability to compete with Europeâs elite teams, calling for deeper introspection and improvement ahead of future tournaments.
