Turkey 0 - 3 Italy | Euro 2020, Group A | 11.06.21

Italy opened Euro 2020 with an emphatic 3-0 victory over Turkey in Rome on Friday night. Mancini's men were a cut above their opponents throughout, running their guests ragged with clever, intricate passing and incisive play. Turkey rarely threatened but held firm in the first, only to be undone after the break by Immobile, Insigne, and an own goal from Demiral, which had opened the scoring.

The hosts completely commanded the ball and quickly took control of possession in the early stages, spurred on by the Azzurri faithful. Unsurprisingly, the first half's best opportunity fell to the home side; Chellini's steered his header, bound for the top corner, was repelled by an acrobatic save from Turkish keeper, Cakir. Clear cut chances were at a premium.

Italy finally broke through the stubborn Turkey defence in the 53rd minute via an own goal from Juve defender, Demiral. The Turks were punished for their second-half adventure, succumbing to a clinical Italian attack that saw Beradi fire a driven cross into the chest of the helpless defender.

Despite their advantage, the hosts continued to advance, forcing Cakir into a series of saves before their constant pressure paid further dividends just after the hour. Immobile, excellent throughout, popped up to double the lead. He reacted quickest to a rebound after another fine Cakir save.

Insigne killed off any Turkish hopes with ten minutes remaining, capping off a terrific performance with a beautifully curled finish from close range. In all, a commanding display for Italy that will make their rivals sit up and take serious notice.