Prandelli’s Italy can counter Serie A stagnation

Italy began their preparation yesterday for the match against Ireland in a mood of national euphoria but no great confidence about the tournament to come.

On Saturday, Carlo Ancelotti lifted the European Cup for the fifth time in his career and the following day prime minister Matteo Renzi was able to claim a resounding victory in the European elections.

In politics as in football it was a welcome relief. Renzi now has a popular mandate, having taken office after a series of fixes, while Ancelotti has allowed the country a touch of reflected glory after another unsuccessful season in Europe.