Just two seconds shy of tabloids full of So Solid Crew references, Albania kicked the evening off with a bang. What a start to the game!
I was rejuvenated by the BBC coverage, actually talking in some depths about the teams and their countries before the game, something ITV probably want to do more, rather than killing me with Southgate chat and congratulating each other on their OBEs. I hadn't known that Sylvinho and Zabaleta were behind the growth of the Albania team, nor had I known that the match would largely be a Serie A clash.
And what a game it was. Albania quite gutsy and direct. Italy slick and well balanced, definitely contenders. Their possession and passing from 45yds-20yds from goal was excellent. Add a proper striker and they'd be favourites imo.
The game was great. Italy dominated and could have won by more, but Albania were always in it, dangerous on the break and could have levelled it up with the last kick. Notable performances from Calafiori, who definitely has a Maldini vibe about him, and Barella who is measured in everything he does.
The first full day of tourney has been excellent. Obviously, with England playing today, I fully expect the first doses of refereeing controversy / fan violence / bore draw to rear their heads.
I will do some obligatory parenting before settling in for the trilogy this afternoon. Park Run and a trip to Halfords before a scouting watch of Denzel Dumfries in action, and then onto Group C.
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