Euro 2020 final: Italy focusing on themselves as they await opponents, Federico Chiesa insists
The Azzurri beat Spain on penalties on Tuesday night.
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Italy striker Federico Chiesa says his side do not need to worry about who will be waiting for them in the Euro 2020 final.
Chiesa scored his second goal of the tournament when he gave his country the lead in their semi-final with Spain which they won 4-2 on penalties at Wembley on Tuesday after Alvaro Morata levelled in the second half.
The Azzurri have been one of the standout sides in the tournament ever since their opening win against Turkey and they found a different way to win against Spain, having been outplayed for most of the 120 minutes.
England or Denmark await Roberto Mancini’s men back at Wembley on Sunday, but Chiesa says Italy will focus on their own preparations.
“We need to simply think about ourselves just as we have done so far this tournament, that is what has got us this far,” he said.
“We need to think about what we need to do there out on the pitch and only after Wednesday will we think about what is next.
“Denmark really play with a lot of intensity and throughout this tournament they have really proved what a top side they are and they have some quality players.
“England have really shown that their individual players can be matchwinners, they have got some top players in the final third and all across the pitch. We will enjoy the second semi-final and see who we are up against.”
Chiesa doubled his tournament tally when he curled into the far corner after a quick break as Spain were pressing for an opener on the hour mark.
When he grabbed his first goal against Austria in the last 16 – also at Wembley – he followed in his father Enrico’s footsteps by scoring at the European Championship after Chiesa Snr netted at Euro 96.
And the Juventus striker says the semi-final win was the best night of his career.
“Without a doubt. Playing for my country in matches like these representing 60 million Italians out there is an unbelievable dream and I never would have imagined it,” he added.
“I am very proud to have scored a goal again like my dad did.”