Mattia De Sciglio admits Italy’s defeat to Ireland is “irritating, but it will help us better prepare for the next match” with Spain.
The Azzurri were already sure of first place in Group E when losing 1-0 to the Republic of Ireland.
“Our objective was to do well and try to win again tonight. There are 23 of us, we are all on the same boat and have the same objective in our minds,” the Milan wing-back told Sky Sport Italia.
Mattia De Sciglio admits Italy’s defeat to Ireland is “irritating, but it will help us better prepare for the next match” with Spain.
The Azzurri were already sure of first place in Group E when losing 1-0 to the Republic of Ireland.
“Our objective was to do well and try to win again tonight. There are 23 of us, we are all on the same boat and have the same objective in our minds,” the Milan wing-back told Sky Sport Italia.
“We wanted a win to give a sense of consistency, especially as this is the kind of game where you risk being embarrassed. Ireland had to play the performance of a lifetime and were very aggressive.
“We did better in the second half and created a few chances, but we knew they’d go for these long balls to make the most of their physicality.
“We need to keep the concentration levels up to the final minute.”
Italy made eight changes to the line-up, so were they already looking ahead to the Round of 16 with Spain?
“All my teammates and I were not thinking about the next match, as we knew the Coach expected a response from those who have played less thus far.
“As I said, we struggled in the first half and certainly did better in the opening two games. This defeat is irritating, but I think it will help us better prepare for the next match.”