We were bored for a long time in front of the duel between the two finalists of Euro 2021, which did not go far from ending in a goalless draw as in the first leg in June. But, on an illumination of the young Giacomo Raspadori (22), Italy ended up winning against England (1-0), this Friday evening, on the occasion of the 5th day of the League of Nations .
The surprising Hungary having beaten Germany (1-0) in the other meeting of the group, Italy will dispute the first place of the group Monday. As for England, vice-champion of Europe, it is simply relegated to League B.
Italy won’t be in Qatar for the World Cup this fall, but Roberto Mancini’s side have consoled themselves with this prestigious success. The Azzurri scored on their first real chance of the game: a perfect opening from captain Leonardo Bonucci for Raspadori who played Kyle Walker before deceiving Nick Pope (68th).
The English did try to get back into the game, but fell on a Donnarumma concentrated on Kane’s two strikes (77th), lacked sharpness like Rice (90th + 2) or were too clumsy as on the head of Bellingham (90th + 5). They even almost conceded a second goal, but Pope repelled Gabbiadini’s good shot before a Dimarco post in the same minute (85th).
England will receive Germany on Monday with the aim of reassuring themselves a few weeks before the World Cup.
The League of Nations can be followed on the L’Équipe channel and on L’Équipe live.