It has been three years since the Azzurre last faced Denmark in the Algarve Cup. Once again, Italy are looking to prove themselves against a strong side, also because a lot has changed since last time. On the day, the Azzurre won thanks to Bonansea’s goal (she also scored Italy’s winner against Wales three days ago). However, this was the side’s last real highlight before a change in Head Coach truly helped them regain confidence, cohesion and belief. This new Italy side wants to continue growing and, after winning their opening match, they will be ready for this new test against Denmark scheduled for tomorrow at 18:15 CET (live on Rai 2) in La Spezia.

The Danes are a good side and have won eight of their previous 17 encounters with the Azzurre, who, however, are aware of their strengths and qualities as a group. Andrea Soncin’s had the following to say: “We’re happy to play at the Stadio Picco, where there’s always a good atmosphere. We expect the fans will come and support the girls, who want to make an impression by giving their all to win the match.” The team aren’t about to stop, and their results show that continuous improvements are being made. Soncin stated that the team’s growth stemmed from “the players’ great determination and willingness, as well as the great work being carried out at club level and by the Federation.” These are the key ingredients to achieve both positive results and push the women’s game forward in Italy.

Before entering the field of play for the routine walkaround and taking a team photo, Soncin spoke about Denmark’s strengths: “The fact that many of their players play in Italy could be an advantage for us as we already know them well. We are going to play a side who are strong in transitions and clinical when they find space. We’ll need to be patient and must stay focused defensively.” Italy can also count on the support of the 2000-strong crowd at the Picco, where the Azzurre have only ever won up to now. The FIGC General Secretary, Marco Brunelli, will be in the stands for the match like usual. Tickets can be purchased until kick-off at Vivaticket salespoints, on figc.vivaticket.it and at the stadium from 16:00 CET.

Andrée Jeglertz’s side, who are currently twelfth in the FIFA Ranking (one spot above the Azzurre), will rely on their leaders to bounce back after their loss to Sweden. Their biggest threat is Pernilla Harder, who has won everything throughout her career at Wolfsburg, Chelsea and Bayern Munich, and she also has a range of individual awards to her name. At club level, Denmark’s star and captain is now playing with Arianna Caruso, who also responded to questions from journalists: “Harder has many qualities, like the whole Danish side. I haven’t thought about how to limit her as we are focused on ourselves. We have a great side. I’m also talking about the staff, the Head Coach and more. These matches allow us to prove ourselves, and tomorrow I hope to see many fans in the stadium. They’ll see a team doing everything to win and make them happy.”