The words of the Italian midfielder before the crucial match against Ukraine, which determines a place in the upcoming European Championship: “If we manage the ball like we did in the first match, they will struggle: that’s what we should do.”
Do or die for Italy tomorrow. Although the possibility of qualifying through the playoffs remains in the background, the ‘Azzurri’ are playing for access to Euro 2024 in a direct clash against Ukraine.
In the match scheduled in Leverkusen, a draw will be enough for Spalletti’s men to secure the 2nd spot in their group and clinch a ticket to the tournament in Germany. On the eve of the decisive match Nicolò Barella spoke to Sky Sport. Here are his statements:
What stands between you and defending the European title?
“Ukraine is a strong team, but we are aware of our abilities. We want to defend the title that we have earned with merit, but first, we have to go through these difficult challenges. Football is like this, life is like this, so we are ready.”
Has it never crossed your mind to say that you have two out of three possible outcomes?
Certainly, but we don’t want a draw, we are going to Leverkusen for the win. Logically, we also need to consider that two results are in our favor, but for us, it would be better to close the game immediately and try to manage it with a better result.”
What did the 5-2 victory over Macedonia leave you in terms of certainty, after conceding 2 fast goals?
“Honestly, I didn’t experience difficult moments on the field. We conceded twice but we always controlled the match. Regardless, we need to always improve because at these levels, when you make mistakes, you are immediately punished. The reaction we had on the field to always seek to score goals and not close ourselves behind was beautiful.”
The first leg showed that Barella and Frattesi play well together. Is that also a key to this game?
“Surely, Davide is a great player, like many here. We are a group and whoever plays has always done well. Strong players always perform well together; we don’t know what the coach’s choices will be, but whoever plays will be ready, this I know.”
How do you beat this Ukraine? Is there something that has impressed you about this team?
“They have great individualities, as evidenced by the teams they play for. They have speed, technique, and a good attack but we showed at San Siro that by having a lot of ball possession, they struggle more. We will have to try to replicate that.”
