The rediscovery of Italian football

Commentary on Italy's victory over France under Mancini, defending traditional Italian football tactics and pragmatism.

Roberto Mancini's Italy defeated France in a match that showcased what the author calls authentic Italian football — not the defensive stereotype often dismissed in recent decades, but rather a pragmatic, adaptable approach rooted in reading the game and striking at the right moment.

The piece argues that Italian football's strength has historically come from defensive excellence and tactical intelligence, qualities that earned respect internationally. Rather than abandoning this tradition for a more "open" or "propositional" style, the author contends that true Italian football is about understanding one's capabilities relative to the opponent, knowing when to be cautious and when to attack, and possessing the mental strength and cunning to seize decisive moments.

The commentary positions Italy's win as a rediscovery of this national footballing identity — not a return to a narrow defensive approach, but a reaffirmation that pragmatism, adaptation, and tactical awareness are virtues, not flaws.