Italy out of Euro 2024

Italy out of Euro 2024. It was a disastrous end for Italy as their dreams of defending the Euro 2020 title crumbled with a shocking 2-0 defeat to Switzerland in the round of 16 on Saturday. Set against the backdrop of the historic Berlin Olympiastadion, the Azzurri seemed unable to hit their stride against a disciplined Swiss side eager for an upset.

Key players from Italy’s 2020 success were noticeably absent, either having aged out or no longer part of the squad, leaving a gap in experience on the big stage. The new generation, though skilled, lacked the composure and tactical savvy to handle the pressures of knockout football. This was further complicated by an uncertain leadership. Coach Luciano Spalletti had limited time to instill his tactics, and the team failed to recapture the magic of the previous management.

Spalletti only became Italy coach last September after Roberto Mancini quit to take the Saudi Arabia job, and he used Saturday’s post-match press conference to remind reporters of his late appointment.

“I have to say this, even if it may seem like I’m looking for alibis. Before this competition the other coaches had 20 or 30 games,” he said.

“I had 10 and I already had a gun pointed at me, saying that I had to win. 

“Then we had several injured players that I was counting on, and today we saw that in terms of the intensity we were inferior. Switzerland qualified in a fair way.”

Spalletti was then asked whether he was likely to stay on as Italy coach in the aftermath of their worst Euros performance since 2004’s group-stage exit.

Conversely, Switzerland entered the match with a clear strategy and determination. Anchored by Granit Xhaka, who controlled the midfield, the Swiss executed a solid tactical game, pressing Italy relentlessly and stifling their creativity. Remo Freuler and Ruben Vargas took advantage of this dominance, scoring well-executed goals on either side of halftime, quashing any hopes of an Italian comeback.

As the final whistle blew, Italian fans were left to grapple with the harsh reality of their team’s exit. This defeat sparks significant questions about the future of the Azzurri. Can this youthful squad learn from this experience and evolve into a formidable team for future tournaments? Rebuilding a champion team requires time and strategic planning. Addressing the leadership gap and nurturing these young talents will be crucial if Italy hopes to reclaim continental glory.