Locked away among the pedestrianised streets in the San Frediano district of Florence lies an open green space where local children play football. This in itself is not an...
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When Calcio Ruled the World: Gabriel Batistuta
Diego Maradona claimed that Gabriel Batistuta was the best striker that has ever graced the face of the earth. No greater praise can be heaped on the man known...
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On the march with Tally’s Army: Stand up for the Boys in Green
On New Year’s day, when an ex-student of mine, a proud Veronese with a curious west coast drawl, asked if I would be interested in going to France for...
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Familiar Foes: Italy and Ireland renew acquaintances
It is a small country on the fringes of Europe, a country whose people have spread knowledge, ‘craic’ and a deal of mischief to the four corners of this...
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Golden Heartbreak: Italy at Euro 2000
Despite a laudable haul of four world cups, Italy have only won the European Championships once – back in 1968, when they played at home in a tournament comprised...
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Gigi Riva: The silence before the thunder
“Knocks from defenders are like caresses when compared to the beatings of mourning, loneliness and deprivation.” Those strong and poignant words were uttered by a man better known for...
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Italy and Euro 2004: A conspiracy or Scandinavian pragmatism?
On a June evening in Porto in 2004, a Scandinavian derby took place in a decisive game of the Euro 2004 group stage. Sweden trailed 2-1 going into the...
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The Battle of Santiago: Chile vs. Italy 1962
In questionable taste, metaphors of war are frequently wheeled out to describe football matches. Spells of territorial dominance are termed as ‘sieges’ complete with ‘aerial bombardments’; midfield ‘generals’ command...
Read MoreClassic Azzurri Match: Brazil 2-3 Italy (1982)
A total of 44,000 people were crammed into the Sarria Stadium in Barcelona on the 5th July 1982. They didn’t know yet but they were to witness a true...
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When Calcio Ruled the World: Tomas Brolin
Tomas Brolin became a legend at Parma after signing from IFK Norrkoping after Italia 90. Featuring in the original Gialloblu side that swept Serie A by storm, he led...
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