Antonio Conte and Gigi Buffon said Euro 2016 must go ahead and “we can’t let this horror become normal.”
UEFA declared there will be no Euro 2016 games behind closed doors, but there are particular concerns for Italy’s opener against Belgium following yesterday’s attacks in Brussels.
“It’s only normal to be worried and that is a sign that in a way is pleasing, as it means we will not get accustomed to something inhuman,” Buffon said in a Press conference.
Antonio Conte and Gigi Buffon said Euro 2016 must go ahead and “we can’t let this horror become normal.”
UEFA declared there will be no Euro 2016 games behind closed doors, but there are particular concerns for Italy’s opener against Belgium following yesterday’s attacks in Brussels.
“It’s only normal to be worried and that is a sign that in a way is pleasing, as it means we will not get accustomed to something inhuman,” Buffon said in a Press conference.
“Yesterday seeing the news my reaction was not as strong as the one in Paris, so I asked myself if I was getting used to this. Is this becoming normal?
“Let’s maintain sharp minds and retain the ability to be shocked by these attacks on everyone’s liberty.”
Conte also commented on the need to focus on the essence of football as a uniting force.
“This is the second time in four months we find ourselves talking about horrible things when preparing for a football match,” said the Coach of the terrorist attacks in Brussels.
“Everything that is happening must make us all pay more attention and be more careful. The Euros and the World Cup are events with people from all over the world coming together for a festival of football.
“I really hope these events do not cause problems in something that has always brought passion, joy and fun to people. I hope we don’t get accustomed to these horrible events, because that mustn’t be the case.
“We certainly can’t let what happened go by without mention. It’s frightening, there’s no denying it. When there is a sporting event we have to also concentrate on the game and try to prepare it as best we can.
“I also think it’s the best way to respond to those who want to frighten us. We worked in training, but can’t obviously pretend nothing is happening.
“Football is joy and we want to transmit joy to the people. We won’t let anyone ruin that.”