Antonio Conte felt Italy “did not deserve” defeat to Ireland, but must revive their enthusiasm against Spain on Monday.
The Azzurri made eight changes to the starting XI and were beaten 1-0 by the Republic of Ireland, having already secured first place in Group E and a Round of 16 clash with Spain.
“I got some good responses from those who haven’t played as much,” said the Coach in his Press conference.
Antonio Conte felt Italy “did not deserve” defeat to Ireland, but must revive their enthusiasm against Spain on Monday.
The Azzurri made eight changes to the starting XI and were beaten 1-0 by the Republic of Ireland, having already secured first place in Group E and a Round of 16 clash with Spain.
“I got some good responses from those who haven’t played as much,” said the Coach in his Press conference.
“It was a tough game, very physical, against a side that played with a lot of long balls to create chaos in the box. It’s their typical style of football and the pitch made it easier for them, but we must give credit for their determination and ardour.
“Those who played gave their all, responded blow for blow, so honour to Ireland for the qualification they so strongly desired and they got perhaps more than deserved.
“I don’t think we deserved to lose, as a draw would’ve been more fair considering the chances created. We had the opportunity to make changes and rest a few players who used up a great deal of energy.
“Despite the changes, this team has its own identity. We have strengths and weaknesses, but we want to battle. Tonight we were facing a side playing the game of a lifetime.”
Italy are already preparing to face Spain in the Round of 16 on Monday at 17.00 UK time (16.00 GMT).
“The lads are doing what they needed to do and what we have is from our hard work. We must continue like this. The objective was to progress, we are now against one of the favourites. Let’s not forget where we started from.
“Playing against Spain must give us a great deal of enthusiasm and we have to play like we did against Belgium, against a side that on paper is superior.
“Spain are one of the best teams in the world. What am I supposed to tell you? That they are poor? We know their strength, but games are decided on the pitch and not on paper.
“If we go out, we have to do it without regrets, when and if that happens. It is down to you reporters to judge whether it was a positive tournament or not.”
Italy topped their group, yet have a shocking route to the Final against Spain, then Germany and hosts France.
Ironically, Belgium finished runners-up and can go through the likes of Hungary, Wales and Northern Ireland.
“It certainly wasn’t a lucky draw… I do let out a bitter laugh looking at the table, as it is so completely unbalanced. These are the rules and we have to respect them.”
Conte was also annoyed at the rules on cards and suspension, as the yellows are not wiped out until the quarter-finals.
“Andrea Barzagli’s booking today could’ve been avoided, then there was one on Lorenzo Insigne. So far we have received a lot of cards, whereas Ireland played a very physical game and only received two.
“I thought Barzagli’s booking was gratuitous and decided very late.”