“I had flashbacks of the Euro 2020 final” - Italy star compares Albania to England after comeback win
Italy attacker Federico Chiesa has revelaed that he had flashbacks of the Euro 2020 final after Albania took an early lead in their Euro 2024 clash on Saturday, June 15.
Albania's Nedim Bajrami capitalized on an awful throw-in from Federico Dimarco. Bajrami smashed the ball past Gianluigi Donnarumma to give Albania a shock lead after just 23 seconds.
Bajrami recorded the fastest goal in the history of the European Championships. Russia's Dmitri Kirichenko held the previous record (67 seconds) for his strike against Greece in 2004.
Italy conceded early in the Euro 2020 final as well, with Luke Shaw scoring with 1 minute and 56 seconds on the clock. Chiesa compared the Albania game to the England final, saying (via Mirror):
"I had some flashbacks of the Euro 2020 final. But we did the same thing against England and Albania, which was dominating the game."
Alessandro Bastoni (11') and Nicolo Barella (16') scored in quick succession to give the Azzurri the lead. Chiesa, however, believes his side need to kill off games better, saying:
"I think the early goal also shook us up, as we immediately went on the attack and in my view deserved to score a few more goals. We ran a bit of a risk at the end. That is where we need to improve, killing off games we are dominating."
Italy will return to action on June 20 when they take on Spain in a Group B clash. Both European heavyweights have won their first game, with La Roja dispatching Croatia 3-0 in their tournament opener.
Italy's Federico Chiesa had an impressive outing against Albania
Federico Chiesa was a key player in Italy's title-winning campaign in 2021. He brought back memories of that tournament with his performance against Albania.
Chiesa completed 24 accurate passes, including two key passes. He created one big chance and also completed four dribbles during the game. Overall it was an impressive outing for the Juventus winger.
Chiesa, when in form, is a difference maker. His bright spark of form is a massive boost for Luciano Spalletti's team as the Azzuri look to defend their status as European champions at Euro 2024.