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The winger was crucial for the Three Lions’ journey to the final and Azzurri boss says his team need to be careful with him and forward Harry Kane
Roberto Mancini has pointed out that England star Raheem Sterling is a threat to Italy ahead of the Euro 2020 final.
Sterling played a key role in the Three Lions’ journey to the final, scoring three goals in the competition and securing the crucial penalty kick in the semi-final victory over Denmark.
Mancini has warned his side will have to be wary of the Manchester City winger when they meet at Wembley, but insists he is not the England team’s only danger.
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What was said?
“England are strong and they have a lot of good players on the bench. If we got here, however, it means we are strong too,” he told reporters.
“Sterling has improved a lot and he’s very fast so we have to be careful with him. But there is also [Harry] Kane. In attack, they are all good, with speed and technique.
“Physically they are stronger than us, but football is played with a ball on the ground. Sometimes the smallest wins, we hope to be ourselves to win, but we have to give our all.”
How did Italy get to the final?
The Azzurri have a perfect record at Euro 2020.
After finishing at the top of their group with three wins, Mancini’s men beat Austria after extra time in the round of 16 before winning 2-1 against Belgium.
They sealed a place in the final by beating Spain on penalties in the semi-finals.
Mancini is proud of the effort his team put in throughout the tournament and hopes they have fun in the clash against Gareth Southgate’s side.
“It will be difficult for many reasons but we have to be focused on our game and try to implement it as best we can, knowing that it will be the last game,” he said. “We hope to have fun for 90 minutes and then go on vacation. A last effort is needed.
“Everyone needs some pampering after 50 days together. They’ve always been good positive days, and I’m happy with all of their hard work. Everyone gave over 100% or else we wouldn’t be there. I’m happy with them and what they’ve done. “
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