"On Friday, after failing to break the deadlock for nearly an hour, they beat Estonia 5-0, recording an xG of 4.74 and attempting 40 shots on goal. You can never say for certain, because stats only go back a couple of decades, but if anyone can prove to me that isn't a record, I'll buy them a steak dinner. On Monday, away to Israel, Italy conceded twice in the final three minutes of regulation before scoring in injury time to win 5-4."
""We're a bunch of crazies; we concede absurd goals!" Gattuso growled after the game. Anyone who watched the game -- or even just the highlights -- can't possibly argue with him. Italy were brave and positive and effective, if not always efficient, over the two matches. In Gattuso's short tenure, they have shown not just the ability, but also the willingness to attack."
"It's a particularly loaded question when it comes to the Azzurri because the four-time world champions, at least since the 1950s, have built their success -- and, let's face it, their brand -- on defensive solidity and tactical savvy. Think Giorgio Chiellini and Leo Bonucci at Euro 2020, Fabio Cannavaro becoming the last defender (possibly ever) to win the Ballon d'Or after lifting the 2006 World Cup, Franco Baresi, Paolo Maldini, Giuseppe Bergomi ... the list goes on and on."
Under Gennaro Gattuso Italy displayed an aggressive attacking approach across their first two matches. They beat Estonia 5-0, generating an xG of 4.74 and attempting 40 shots. They then edged Israel 5-4 after conceding twice in the final three minutes and scoring in injury time, with two own goals occurring in the tie. Those matches marked the first time Italy conceded four goals in men's World Cup qualifying and the first time they had two own goals in fifty years. The team showed bravery, positivity and attacking willingness but exposed defensive frailties that contrast with Italy's historic defensive identity.
Read at ESPN.com
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