Azzurri winger Nicolò Zaniolo believes it was a hard-fought match against Ukraine to secure qualification for EURO 2024. The match ended 0-0, but Italy had a number of wasted chances to take the lead in the first half. Speaking of the qualification, Zaniolo explained that Italy had a duty to defend the title in next summers competition:
“It was a hard-fought match. Ukraine has pace and is strong on the counterattacks. We had to be careful in the defensive phase. It was a match full of values and today we go home happy because we are taking part in the European Championship.”
“Mudryk? He’s very strong. He has great quality one-on-one. Sometimes I had to double up. It was a match full of action, a lot of distance covered. We were tired but we’re happy. ”
“Each coach gave us something important, from Mancini to Spalletti. There is enthusiasm like before . We knew the importance of the match but we acted like a family.”
“We have to defend the title. We are reigning European champions. It was almost a duty to be there . Then there are matches in which you are more brilliant or not but you have to sweat for the shirt” .
“I never set myself long-term goals. I have to improve in the defensive phase, the coach is helping me. My goal is to be a complete player both in the defensive phase than in the offensive one . I’m happy with this result that we all achieved together and let’s move forward.”
“Differences between Serie A and the Premier League? It’s a completely different type of football. I’m having fun, I like it, it’s a life experience that I will put in my baggage. I’m happy to have made this choice, I’m happy.”
