Pellegrini: ‘Spain not superior to Italy’
Lorenzo Pellegrini assures he ‘didn’t see Spain superior to Italy tonight’ in the Nations League semi-final, especially down to 10 men for the entire second half.
The Azzurri saw their 37-game world record unbeaten run come to an end with this 2-1 defeat, although Pellegrini did score a late consolation goal on Federico Chiesa’s assist after a Ferran Torres brace and Leonardo Bonucci’s red card.
“We’re very disappointed and feel above all regret, because we could’ve done well, but the incidents went against us today,” Roma midfielder Pellegrini told RAI Sport.
Bonucci received the first yellow card for dissent, the second for jumping with elbow raised on Sergio Busquets.
“It was a challenge, sometimes the ref gives a foul, sometimes a card, but even in defeat we proved that we are a great group, a real family and believed to the end.”
Spain caused Italy the most problems at UEFA EURO 2020, although that was eventually decided on penalties, so Pellegrini was asked if La Roja are at a more advanced stage right now?
“They have had this style of football for many years, but I didn’t see Spain superior to Italy tonight. Even down to 10 men, we had our say. They are good at keeping the ball, but I see a bright future full of victories for Italy.”
Italy now feel they and Spain will be among the contenders for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
“I’m sure we’ll meet Spain again and we can’t wait.”