Why a nation destroyed by Covid-19 needed this win more than most

Italy was once the epicentre of the pandemic, and one of the first countries to lock down its residents. They needed this win.

Italy’s Euro 2020 victory over England will, sadly, not change the past but it does mean something.

“Considering everything that Italy has gone through the last 18 months. Stay at home orders, to lockdown, and hospitals, unable to travel. This means the world. But more importantly after missing the World Cup only two years ago. and to go 34 unbeaten. This is the best feeling in the world.”

RICK D’ANDREA, TICKER NEWS

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Three players missed from the spot as England’s spot-kick curse reared its ugly head.

It’s been 55 years since England reached the major final of any tournament and it’s not coming home just yet.

Nathan Albon from the BBC couldn’t hide his disappointment.

“It’s just heartbreaking watching the replays. Bukayo Saka just 19-years of age, you’ve really got to feel for him. The weight of England’s expectations on his shoulders but he couldn’t deliver. But that’s football.”

It was the first Euro Championship hosted across six different nations, which drew criticism given the current climate.

Despite this, commentator Matt Iles said it was the best Euros he’s seen:

“To my memory it was the fifth tournament that I’ve watched. And it was certainly right up there with the best tournament I’ve seen. It was really exciting. Although it didn’t ‘come home’ as the song says.”

MATT ILES, COMMENTATOR

Manager Roberto Mancini has now gone 34 matches unbeaten since taking over after the World Cup debacle where they failed to qualify.