Italy defender Leonardo Bonucci admitted that Tuesday’s clash with Spain was the toughest game he ever played as the Azzurri booked their place in the Euro 2020 final.
Bonucci’s side outlasted Spain in a shootout, earning a place in the finale against either Denmark or England.
After a back-and-forth match that saw Spain equalize in the 80th minute on an Alvaro Morata goal, Bonucci was beaming with pride as he said his team showed exactly what they’re made of to move one step closer to a major trophy.
“This is the toughest game I have ever played. I congratulate Spain for what they showed, but once again this Italy showed heart, determination and the ability to push through difficult moments and the lottery of penalties rewarded us,” Bonucci told RAI Sport.
“The victory you suffer for is always the most enjoyable one.”
“Now there’s one more centimetre to go. Just one more centimetre,” he added. “It’s incredible what we are doing, but we mustn’t feel satisfied. We’re in the final. It is in five days, and we need the same hunger and spirit of sacrifice to bring this trophy home after many years.”
