Italy’s Crushing Germany Loss Highlights Poor Decision-Making from Antonio Conte

By Blair Newman
at Internationaled.org

Published: March 30, 2016

There is nothing like a crushing defeat to generate real perspective. In this sense, Italy’s dispiriting 4-1 loss to Germany on Tuesday night could be viewed as a blessing in disguise.

It highlighted, as bluntly as possible, exactly how much work Antonio Conte has to do before the UEFA European Championship begins in June.

After topping their qualification group without truly breaking sweat, the Azzurri perhaps had some false confidence going into this international break. But if a reality check was needed after the promising 1-1 draw with Spain last Thursday, it was duly received in the Allianz Arena.

Joachim Low’s Germany outfit were, at least, one level above Conte’s side. They snuffed out attacks with ease and cut through the visitors’ midfield like a hot knife through butter. It became all too easy, too quickly, as Die Mannschaft recorded a first win over Italy since 1995.

Afterwards, the Azzurri coach spoke to Rai Sport (h/t Football Italia) about the sobering result and said:

I repeat, there was no need to act triumphant after Spain and we realise there is a gap to be bridged to the other team.

Now we’ll wait for the season to end and try to pick the best players.

To play with a high tempo and intensity, you need it in your legs. It was inevitable some would suffer the effects of Friday’s games and that too will be evaluated.

Lack of fitness isn’t a viable excuse, especially given the fact that Germany played England two days after Italy’s trip to Spain. And besides, more obviously troubling themes had emerged even before a ball was kicked.

Conte’s selection policy has been under constant scrutiny during his time in the job, and rightly so. His decision to omit Napoli livewire Lorenzo Insigne—who, according to Squawka, has been the second-best player in Serie A this season&m...

Article Source: Bleacher Report - International Football

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