Italy team analysis
Tuesday, July 31, 2018
Article summary
The Italian team were a compact and hard-working outfit who combined a controlled build-up with flashes of fast counterattacking play.
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Key features – Italy
• 1-4-3-3 or 1-4-2-3-1 with lone striker or 1-4-4-2 with midfield diamond
• Tonali screening the back four, responsible for build-up, opening to wings
• Fast transitions to compact middle or low 1-4-5-1 or 1-4-4-2 defensive block
• Controlled build-up with possession play or fast, direct counterattacking
• Strikers wide to create overloads; active full-backs, especially Bellanova on right
• Well-drilled tactical repertoire adjusted to characteristics of opponent
• Compact, hardworking unit with defensive balance, excellent goalkeeping
Head coach: Paolo Nicolato (21/12/1966)