24 hours ahead of Italy's final challenge of the group stage, which will decide whether they finish top and, as a result, who they face in the next round, Coach Roberto Mancini and striker Andrea Belotti met with the Press. Kick-off in tomorrow’s game against Wales is at 18:00.

“It will be a tough game - outlined the Coach straight away - against a difficult opponent who has been climbing up the Fifa rankings for years. Wales have some quality, technical players and are a really physical side, like all the British teams.” On the possibility of a damp squib, Mancini was clear: “Such a game can only happen when two teams both stand to gain by playing out the match without intensity or risk. We are already in the Round of 16 but it will still be a hard game, given the physical and technical traits that their side has. We will have to play well, and obviously we will aim to win.”

After two wins from two at UEFA Euro 2020, with six goals scored and none conceded, the Azzurri face their third game in ten days tomorrow: “Playing in such a busy period and especially tomorrow at 18:00 when it will be over 30 degrees, we need fresh energy and will make a few changes. When I say I have 26 starting-quality players, I mean it.”

Andrea Belotti, “il Gallo”, is amongst those who might play from the start tomorrow at the Olimpico. The Torino forward said: “For now, we do not know who will start. It depends on the gaffer’s choices. What is clear is that, on a personal level, wearing the Azzurri shirt, representing my country is something that gives me enormous pride every time I do it. I will give my all to bring joy to the Italian fans. This team wants to go far in the tournament and to do that we need everyone to help the team out.”

The Itinerary

Sunday 20 June
18:00 – Italy vs. Wales at the Stadio Olimpico. Press conference/media duties after full-time. 

Monday 21 June
17:30 - Rome-Florence train

Tuesday 22 June
**14:00 - Players on media duties
*18:00 - Training (behind-closed-doors)

Wednesday 23 June
**14:00 - Players on media duties
*18:00 - Training (behind-closed-doors)

Thursday 24 June
**14:00 - Players on media duties
*18:00 - Training (behind-closed-doors)

Friday 25 June
Chartered departure for Round of 16 game

* photos will be taken and shared by FIGC 
**media access will be limited to reduced numbers