The Italian striker blames lack of tempo for the defeat that starved Italy of scoring chances; insists Gli Azzurri are still strong contenders for Euro 2012.
Alessandro Matri has expressed his disappointment over the 1-0 defeat at the hands of USA at Stadio Luigi Ferraris recently.
He believes that the team failed to build a tempo during the match against the team which is ranked 31st in the FIFA rankings. He also reflected on USA’s fortunes at having scored with the only shot-on-target in the game.
While talking to the press, the former Cagliari striker said:
“We lacked a goal, but also the tempo was not as good as in other games. I felt that was more the problem, although we also conceded with the only USA shot on target.”
The Juventus striker insisted that despite the disappointment, Italy are a strong team, and their prolific abilities in front of the goal can give any team a run for their money.
“We are certainly disappointed at the defeat, but we know how strong this squad is and had some great performances to reach Euro 2012, so we all have confidence.”
The Bianconeri forward maintained that despite the disappointment in the match, Italy have always exhibited a fluid attacking game.
“Aside from this evening, when we did actually create chances, the side has never struggled to score. We have the players to both provide and score.”
Matri received a rare chance to prove his worth at the international scene, but the striker could not make most of the opportunity. The former Cagliari striker lamented at his failure to score in the match, but insisted that goals
cannot be considered as the only measure of a player’s performance.
The 27-year-old is determined to work hard to cement a place in the Blues squad for the upcoming Euro 2012.
“I’ll keep working and see what I can do to earn my ticket to Euro 2012.” Added the Italian international
Italy will begin their European campaign with a game against Spain on June 10, 2012.
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