FOOTBALL

Why Italy should keep faith in Roberto Mancini despite World Cup disappointment

Published

3 years ago

March 25, 2022

admin

Italy crashed out of the World Cup play-offs suffering a surprising 1-0 defeat to North Macedonia.

The Azzurri emerged as one of the potential title contenders for Qatar 2022 after their heroic Euro 2020 triumph.

But in less than ten months after enjoying a glorious night at Wembley, Italy saw the other side of the coin as they missed out on their second World Cup in a row.

After such a catastrophe, the manager’s head is usually the first to roll. Not qualifying for football’s showpiece event is a massive failure for a team like Italy, who have four world titles to their name.

Will Roberto Mancini face the music?

Italian football governance body FIGC had tied down Mancini till 2026.

The former Manchester City manager had led the resurgence of Italian football following their dismal 2018 World Cup qualification campaign.

But did he bank enough credit to retain his job?

Italy did not lose a single match in the qualifiers before the play-offs.

But, they dropped points in four out of their eight games.

Draws against Switzerland, who won the group, were particularly damaging.

This is even more unbearable because they missed penalties in both of their matches against their Central European neighbours.

They would have gone through without the playoffs had they taken their chances.

The margin of error was so narrow for Mancini’s men that it would not make a lot of sense to pin the blame on the management.

A handful of games should not undo the years of good work Roberto Mancini and his coaching staff did.

Mancini changed the DNA

Roberto Mancini brought about a fundamental change in Italy’s game.

He ditched the conservative approach that had been synonymous with the Italian team and implemented a more dynamic, attacking style.

During his tenure, Italy became a more balanced side, being as ruthless up front as resilient in the back.

As a result, Italy qualified for the Euros with three games in hand, lifted the Euro 2020 trophy, made it to the last four of the UEFA Nation’s League, and went on a world record 37-match unbeaten streak.

It would be illogical to lose sight of these incredible achievements over the last four years.

Commitment to youth

Another reason to back Mancini is his commitment to youth footballers.

Mancini has put maximum emphasis on promoting young Italian talents.

Since taking over the reins, he has capped 35 players and has been in constant contact with Serie A clubs with promising young Italian players.

With many of Italy’s key players approaching retirement, Italy will be going through a transition period with an influx of fresh blood in the coming years.

Roberto Mancini’s track record suggests he is the perfect man to oversee that process and help Italy recover from the setback of missing another World Cup.

FC Goa

FC Goa Triumphs Over Mohun Bagan with a 2-1 Victory

Published

2 days ago

December 21, 2024

Maadhav

FC Goa defeats Mohun Bagan! FC Goa secured a memorable 2-1 victory against Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the Indian Super League at Fatorda Stadium. This high-stakes encounter ended Mohun Bagan’s unbeaten streak, marking a significant moment in the league.

Brison Fernandes opened the scoring for FC Goa in the 13th minute, assisted by Borja Herrera. His shot deflected off Mohun Bagan’s Tom Aldred, giving Goa an early lead. Despite pressing attacks, Mohun Bagan failed to capitalize on opportunities during the first half, keeping FC Goa ahead.

The second half saw Mohun Bagan equalize through Dimitrios Petratos’ penalty, awarded after a handball by Armando. With the match level, momentum shifted briefly in favor of Mohun Bagan. However, FC Goa struck again in the 68th minute as Brison Fernandes headed in Herrera’s precise cross, sealing the lead and eventual victory for the home side. FC Goa defeats Mohun Bagan!

FC Goa’s defense stood firm during the closing stages, with Sandesh Jhingan and Odei Onaindia effectively countering Mohun Bagan’s attempts to find another equalizer. This win elevated FC Goa to third place in the league standings with 22 points from 12 matches, showcasing their strong form this season.

The match underscored FC Goa’s resilience and tactical discipline, while Mohun Bagan will aim to bounce back from this setback. Fans were treated to an exciting contest, reflecting the competitive spirit of the league.

FC Goa

FC Goa Host League Leaders Mohun Bagan Super Giant in ISL Clash

Published

2 days ago

December 20, 2024

Maadhav

FC Goa Host League Leaders Mohun Bagan Super Giant in ISL Clash

FC Goa vs Mohun Bagan Super Giant! The Indian Super League (ISL) promises an intense showdown as FC Goa faces league leaders Mohun Bagan Super Giant this Friday at Fatorda. With playoff positions at stake, both teams are set for a thrilling encounter.

FC Goa aims to break into the top three with a win, continuing their unbeaten six-match streak. Striker Armando Sadiku leads the Goa attack with eight goals in ten matches, while midfielders Iker Guarrotxena and Dejan Drazic add creativity. Young goalkeeper Hrithik Tiwari’s three clean sheets in five matches provide defensive assurance. FC Goa vs Mohun Bagan Super Giant!

Mohun Bagan, atop the league with 26 points, has relied on Jamie Maclaren’s scoring consistency and Greg Stewart’s midfield mastery. Although Stewart will miss the match due to injury, the Mariners boast six clean sheets this season, anchored by goalkeeper Vishal Kaith.

Both teams have impressive records, with Goa scoring 21 goals and Mohun Bagan conceding only 10 this season. The match could define playoff aspirations as Mohun Bagan aims to solidify their position, and Goa seeks to climb the rankings. Fans anticipate a tightly contested game between two strong sides showcasing Indian football’s growing quality.

The match is critical for both teams’ playoff aspirations. FC Goa looks to capitalize on their home advantage and attacking prowess, while Mohun Bagan seeks to extend their dominance at the top of the league. With FC Goa scoring 21 goals and Mohun Bagan conceding only 10 this season, the battle promises to be a showcase of quality football.

Fans are eagerly anticipating this high-stakes clash, which could significantly impact the league’s playoff picture. Both teams have shown resilience and skill, ensuring a thrilling contest.

FC Goa

Mohun Bagan SG and FC Goa Face Off in ISL 2024-25 Thriller

Published

2 days ago

December 20, 2024

Maadhav

Mohun Bagan SG faces FC Goa in a thrilling ISL 2024-25 encounter, promising intense action and crucial league implications.

The Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 features a highly anticipated clash between Mohun Bagan Super Giant and FC Goa at Fatorda’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Friday. Both teams come into this encounter in solid form, aiming to strengthen their campaigns at a crucial juncture in the season.

Mohun Bagan leads the standings with an unbeaten streak, registering seven wins and a draw in ISL 2024-25. Their defensive strength is evident, having kept six clean sheets. FC Goa, sitting fourth on the table, boasts a dynamic attacking style, with nine different players contributing goals this season.

This battle between Mohun Bagan’s resolute defense and Goa’s attacking versatility promises to be a high-stakes showdown. Goa seeks to overcome the league leaders and secure vital points to narrow the gap. Meanwhile, Mohun Bagan looks to extend its dominance and consolidate its position at the top.

Key players to watch include Mohun Bagan’s defensive stalwarts and Goa’s offensive playmakers. Both sides have demonstrated their capability to adapt to challenging situations, setting the stage for a thrilling contest. With the mid-season point approaching, the match carries significant implications for both teams’ playoff aspirations.

Fans can expect an intense, action-packed game as two of the ISL’s top teams vie for supremacy. Mohun Bagan’s strategic discipline will be tested against Goa’s creative and relentless attacks. This matchup is a must-watch for football enthusiasts, showcasing the best of Indian football talent.