Italy's History of Last-Minute Football Triumphs
Italian football has a storied tradition of dramatic, last-minute victories, a trend that continued recently with Mattia Zaccagni's 98th-minute goal against Croatia in Euro 2024. This thrilling finish is reminiscent of several historical moments where the Azzurri managed to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat.
One of the most memorable instances dates back to the 2006 World Cup when Italy faced Australia in the Round of 16. Reduced to ten men due to Materazzi's expulsion, the Azzurri were struggling until Fabio Grosso earned a penalty in the 95th minute, which Francesco Totti converted to secure a 1-0 win. This moment of jubilation is etched in the memories of Italian football fans.
The tradition of last-minute heroics goes back even further to the 1934 World Cup Final. Italy, trailing against Czechoslovakia, equalized in the 81st minute through Orsi's curling shot, sending the game into extra time. Schiavio's decisive goal in extra time secured Italy's first World Cup title, with Benito Mussolini watching from the stands.
Recent Drama in Euro 2024
The recent Euro 2024 match between Italy and Croatia was no different in terms of drama and excitement. Played in Leipzig, the match saw Croatia taking an early lead with Luka Modric scoring in the first half. Italy, under Luciano Spalletti, struggled to find their rhythm initially but began to push forward as the match progressed.
The Italian side came close to equalizing several times, with Retegui and Bastoni posing constant threats to the Croatian defense. The breakthrough finally came in the 97th minute when Zaccagni scored a historic goal to level the match at 1-1, ensuring Italy's progression to the knockout stages.
This match was a testament to Italy's resilience and never-say-die attitude, a characteristic that has defined their footballing history. From the 1970 World Cup classic against Germany to the 1994 World Cup Round of 16 match against Nigeria, and the 2006 World Cup semi-final against Germany, Italy has repeatedly demonstrated their ability to perform under pressure and deliver in the dying moments of the game.
- In the 1970 World Cup semi-final against Germany, Italy experienced one of the most thrilling matches in football history. After being equalized by Schnellinger at the end of regulation time, Italy fought back in extra time with Gianni Rivera scoring the decisive goal in a match filled with emotions and multiple lead changes.
- The 1994 World Cup saw another dramatic turnaround when Roberto Baggio scored a late equalizer against Nigeria in the Round of 16, followed by a penalty in extra time to send Italy through to the next round.
- The 2006 World Cup semi-final against Germany was another nail-biter, with Fabio Grosso scoring in the 119th minute and Alessandro Del Piero sealing the victory in extra time injury time, sending Italy to the final where they eventually won the tournament.
