Live TMW
11.58pm – The national team striker Federico Chiesa is in the press conference, awarded as MVP of Italy-Albania: “The initial error was negative, but we managed to overturn it immediately. There was a great team performance because together, as a team, we immediately overturned it. Albania played a tough, balanced match in the final could have drawn, even if the draw would have been a bad result.
Are there any points in common with the group from three years ago?
“Yes, now as then we are a strong and cohesive group. Tonight we demonstrated it: conceding a goal after a few seconds is not easy and instead we demonstrated that we have great players in the team, some top players. We turned it around and achieved a well-deserved success.”
What does Spalletti say to you during the match to stimulate you?
“He wants maximum performance from everyone. The coach always gives advice, it was difficult to hear him today from the other side of the pitch. It was wonderful to play in front of this crowd, even if there were fewer Italians. It’s also nice to play outside home and I don’t think it influenced the first goal.”
TMW – What Church has arrived at this European Championship and how different is it compared to the one three years ago?
“I think that the player’s evolution can be seen on the pitch, I have a lot to demonstrate. That European Championship brings sweet memories, we hope to stay in this event for as long as possible. Continuity on the pitch, always being present, makes the difference. Regarding the role, the coach asked me to play on the right and I was very happy.”
Now there will be Spain
“It’s a great national team, but we won’t be outdone. We’ll take to the pitch with the desire to battle: ball possession is true, but the coach wants tough players because we also need that on the pitch.”
00.06 – Press conference concluded.