Former Italy international Leonardo Bonucci has warned the Azzurri players not to let the pressure get to them.
Italy need just a point from their final group game against Croatia to secure their place in the last 16 as runners-up, but a loss could see them finish third or even fourth.
Bonucci said: “You have to focus on enjoying the game because if you stop to think about the importance of the match, you risk getting overwhelmed by the pressure and even feeling suffocated. So, you have to go out there just thinking about what you need to do, and I’m sure the coach has prepared us well for the game.”
“You have to enjoy football, don’t think about what comes before or after. I used to live for these games, those moments where you need to show personality, courage, and determination, enjoying the game from the first to the last minute. I am very confident for tonight’s match because I see a team full of quality players and people we can rely on.”
“They have a good midfield organization and are capable of raising their level in these matches, we have seen it over the years, it’s part of their culture and attitude. We have to do the same thing, focusing on courage, overcoming every obstacle, and I expect a tough match for both teams. Croatia has excellent individual quality, they haven’t been performing as well lately, but they still deserve respect.”
“I spoke to Jorginho, he’s a great person and a great player, he knows what he brings to the team in terms of organization, passing and filling in the gaps. I hope tonight is his game. We are all behind them.”
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