Newcastle United and Italy midfielder Sandro Tonali shared his thoughts following the 2-2 draw between Italy and Belgium in a recent international match. Despite facing adversity, Tonali highlighted the positive aspects of the team’s performance and the spirit they displayed on the field.
“It was a positive game overall,” Tonali began. “The red card is part of football, and we have to accept everything that comes with it. We showed that we know how to play, and it was challenging to confirm our abilities because that’s what everyone expected from us. We proved we are a team in the first 40 minutes.”
Tonali acknowledged the impact of the red card on the match dynamics but praised his team’s resilience. “We accept that after a red card, the game can change, especially since they scored immediately after. However, for an hour, we held strong against a really tough opponent.”
The midfielder emphasized a significant shift in the team’s approach, noting the enjoyment they experienced on the pitch. “In the first 40 minutes, you could see we were having fun on the field, which is something we’ve missed in the past year. That’s what we enjoy the most.”
Tonali also highlighted how the team adapted to the changing circumstances of the match. “Then this enjoyment turned into a struggle, but we remained united and compact, managing to finish the game with our heads held high.”
