Gianluigi Donnarumma, Italy’s European Championship hero, is once again proving indispensable as the Azzurri head into their Euro 2024 last 16 clash with Switzerland. Having been named player of the tournament in the previous Euros, Donnarumma’s stellar performances in the group stage in Germany have been crucial for Italy’s advancement from Group B.
The Italian captain’s crucial last-gasp save in the opening 2-1 win against Albania set the tone for Italy’s qualification journey. Despite a humbling 1-0 defeat to Spain, Donnarumma’s efforts prevented a heavier loss. His heroics continued in the dramatic 1-1 draw with Croatia, where he saved a penalty from Luka Modric and made several key stops before Croatia eventually scored.
Donnarumma’s ability to save penalties will be vital in the knockout stages, particularly for an Italian side struggling with chance creation and finishing. His top-notch performances come after a season of criticism at Paris Saint-Germain, and his leadership has been praised, especially after coach Luciano Spalletti chose him over Tottenham Hotspur’s Guglielmo Vicario.
“It’s difficult to explain what it means to wear this shirt, come here and know that 60 million Italians are watching at home,” Donnarumma said before the Croatia match. “It means even more when you’re wearing the captain’s armband.”
Italy faces additional challenges on Saturday due to the suspension of centre-back Riccardo Calafiori, whose role was crucial in Italy’s draw against Croatia. With Calafiori out, either Gianluca Mancini or Alessandro Buongiorno will fill the defensive gap. Mancini, a more traditional defender, offers experience, while Buongiorno’s style closely matches Calafiori’s.
Italy’s path in the knockout stages appears favorable, avoiding many tournament heavyweights until potentially the final. However, based on their group stage performances, Italy remains cautious, aware that no match is easy.
“We’ve realised that there are no easy games. You can see these big teams struggle with their style of play and getting results,” said Buongiorno. “Having seen their matches tells us that we can’t underestimate anyone, because every team is good and can hurt you if you’re not at your best.”
If Italy overcomes Switzerland, they will face either Slovakia or England in Duesseldorf in the quarter-finals.
