Italy finished top of their Euro 2020 group on Sunday as Matteo Pessina’s first half goal helped a much-changed Azzurri side beat 10-man Wales 1-0 in Rome, while the visitors held on to second place despite the defeat.
The Italians had already guaranteed their progress from Group A, but they assured themselves of first place with victory, while Wales secured a last-16 berth too by finishing ahead of Switzerland on goal difference.
Roberto Mancini's side are now unbeaten in 30 games, equalling their all-time best run recorded from 1935 to 1939, and kept a clean sheet for an 11th consecutive match to underline their credentials as potential tournament winners. Pessina volleyed the dominant hosts in front at a lively Stadio Olimpico after 39 minutes as they put in an impressive display despite Mancini replacing eight of the players who started in a 3-0 win over Switzerland on Wednesday.
"We dug in, dug in for Ethan . We have each other’s backs and finished off the job. We could have nicked a draw maybe on another day, but it wasn’t to be, but we are delighted to finish second," said Wales midfielder Aaron Ramsey.With Italy already through, Mancini made eight changes to his team, a joint record number for the Azzurri between games at a major tournament.
Bernardeschi cannoned a free-kick off the foot of the post early in the second half, and a few minutes later the Italy winger had his foot stamped on by Ampadu, leading to the defender’s dismissal.
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