By Daily Sports on June 14, 2016

Emanuele Giaccherini and Graziano Pelle scored as Italy began their Euro 2016 campaign with victory over much-fancied Belgium in Lyon.

Sunderland's Giaccherini slotted home in the first half after collecting Leonardo Bonucci's superb long pass.

Southampton's Pelle sealed the win in injury time with an emphatic volley following an incisive break.

Belgium were very disappointing, with Romelu Lukaku and Divock Origi wasteful in front of goal.

Everton forward Lukaku curled over from the edge of the box with just the keeper to beat while Liverpool's Origi missed two opportunities to head his side level.

Before the tournament began some pundits condemned this Italy squad for a lack of quality, and even coach Antonio Conte said: "It isn't a good time for our football."

The soon-to-be-Chelsea boss added: "It's important the squad has a good spirit. I work a lot at this."

On the evidence of this game, that is not the only thing he has worked at.

Italy's triumph was a result of superior organisation and discipline against 11 Belgian individuals who appear to possess, on paper at least, the greater talent.

Both sides now face games against the Republic of Ireland and Sweden, who drew 1-1 in the Group E opener earlier on Monday.

With 16 of 24 teams progressing from the group stage, Italy took a huge step towards advancing with victory against their likeliest challengers. (bbc.com)

•Photo shows Giaccherini celebrate his goal.

Source Daily Sports

Posted June 14, 2016

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