[Jager]

Claudio Gentile admits the Azzurrini deserved to lose their opening game, but insists the Championship remains within their grasp.


“The team was lacking in verve,” he noted after last night’s 2-1 defeat to Belarus. “Conceding such an early goal was a real blow and despite two chances the equalise that second strike just knocked the wind out of our sails.”


Belarus now leap to the top of Group A alongside Serbia & Montenegro, who beat Croatia 3-2.


“After the break we managed to get more of a grip on the game,” continued the Coach, “but couldn’t quite draw level. We knew they were going to be tough opponents and cannot argue with the result, as it was certainly deserved.”


Italy were among the favourites for these European Under-21 Championships and Gentile insists they can recover from this disastrous start.


“Now it’s more of an uphill struggle, but our path is by no means impossible. There are another two games to go in this Group phase and we will try to win both of them.”


Alberto Gilardino was on target in the second half, but it wasn’t enough to get Italy back into the game.


“When we stepped on to the pitch we didn’t have the same conviction as in other games,” revealed the Parma hitman.


“Belarus caused us a lot of problems, but we know our true worth and everyone must live up to their potential if we are to turn the situation around.”


The Azzurrini’s next match will be against joint leaders Serbia & Montenegro – who were also in Italy’s qualifying Group for this tournament – on Saturday evening.


“Obviously we’re all upset at this poor start to the Championships,” concluded Gilardino, “and it wasn’t a great performance, but we will make up for it in our next two games.”


They'll have to do it without Daniele Bonera, will be suspended after his late red card against Belarus.