England defeated Italy on Tuesday to secure their place at Euro 2024, while also leaving the reigning champions' qualifying hopes in jeopardy. Despite Gianluca Scamacca initially giving the Azzurri the lead in the first half, England turned the game around with two goals from Harry Kane and one from Marcus Rashford, resulting in a 3-1 victory at Wembley Stadium.
England got its revenge by winning the match, which took place in the same stadium where they lost to Italy in the Euro 2020 final two years ago. This victory also ensured that the Three Lions will be participating in Euro 2024, scheduled to be held in Germany next year. Currently, England leads Group C with 16 points after playing six games.
Nevertheless, Italy's defeat has put their chances of qualifying for the tournament in jeopardy. The Azzurri currently stand at 10 points after six games, trailing Ukraine by three points who has amassed 13 points after playing seven games.
With only two games left in the qualification process, to be held in November, Italy must secure victories in both matches. The first will be played at home against North Macedonia, followed by an away match against Ukraine. It is imperative for Italy to claim second place in Group C if they wish to secure their spot in next year's tournament.
Failing to qualify for Euro 2024 would further extend the already unprecedented period of disappointment for the Italian men's national team, as they have already failed to make it to the last two World Cups. Considering their status as a four-time world champion and the current European champion, not reaching Germany would be seen as another significant failure.
Italy head coach Luciano Spalletti said he thought his side didnt deserve Tuesdays result with the way it played.
Italy players look dejected after losing to England at Wembley Stadium.
Naomi Baker/Getty Images
Spalletti, the current manager who replaced Roberto Mancini in September, expressed that he does not believe the team deserved to suffer a two-goal defeat, as reported by Reuters. He emphasized the importance of improving in crucial moments that determine the outcome of significant matches. Although the team performed admirably for most of the game, they must capitalize on their opportunities.
England, however, achieved another remarkable outcome and display, securing their qualification for the upcoming Euro tournament. With Kane's two goals, his overall count for the national team reached 61. Nonetheless, it could be contended that Jude Bellingham once again shone as the standout performer.
The young player, aged 20, secured the penalty that led to England's first goal and assisted in setting up Rashford for the second goal. Bellingham's outstanding performances for Real Madrid have seamlessly carried over to the international stage. Impressively, he has scored 10 goals and provided three assists in his initial 10 matches for Los Blancos. Following the triumph, manager Gareth Southgate emphasized the noteworthy influence that Bellingham has had on the team, disregarding his young age.
Southgate raved about Jude's incredible mentality, given his young age. He highlighted the remarkable impact, maturity, and humility displayed by Jude, emphasizing how fortunate they are to have him.