Wednesday, 12th June, 2013
Italy Under-21 midfielder Andrea Bertolacci has explained that they made life difficult for Norway Under-21s after recording a 1-1 draw, following a goal at the death, in the European Under-21 Championship last night.
The 22-year-old Genoa schemer scored in stoppage time to seal the second semi-final place from Group A for the Azzurrinis. Norway Under-21 head coach Tor Ole Skullerud’s side took the lead in the 90th minute of the match, courtesy of a well-taken penalty from substitute Stefan Strandberg.
Both teams have now sealed their respective spots in the semi-final, with Italy Under-21s having a two-point edge over Skullerud’s side.
“Today we made life difficult for a really good team – [Norway] play well, they go forward and are determined. They can go far also”, Bertolacci told UEFA.
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“But if we play in our style, with the ball on the ground and really going for it, we need not fear anyone.”
Looking forward to the semi-final clash, he stresses the need to continue the hunger and determination.
“We have to think about our own game, and show no fear. We’ll play against whichever opponent knowing our own qualities.
“And with the determination and hunger we showed today we can achieve our goal.”
Meanwhile, Norway Under-21 defender and skipper Strandberg has explained the strength of his side’s squad, and has insisted that they can beat anybody if they are having a good day.
“We’ve got many really good young players, as you saw tonight when we substituted the whole squad [Norway made nine changes from their last game, ed.].
“It’s good we’re in the semi-finals and we’re going to meet the Netherlands or Spain, so it’s going to be a really tough game, but if we have a good day we can beat anybody”, he added.
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