Where does Italy play its matches?

Italy plays its matches in various Italian stadiums, primarily at Rome's Stadio Olimpico (72,698 capacity) and Milan's San Siro. This rotation allows all Italian tifosi to support La Nazionale and maintains nationwide enthusiasm throughout the peninsula.

What is Italy's history?

Founded in 1910, Italy quickly dominated world football, winning its first two World Cups in 1934 and 1938. The Azzurri then triumphed in 1982 and 2006, establishing themselves as one of football's greatest nations. Victory at Euro 2020 continues this tradition.

What are Italy's main achievements?

Italy counts 4 World Cups (1934, 1938, 1982, 2006), 2 European Championships (1968, 2020), 1 Confederations Cup, and 2 Olympic gold medals. The Azzurri also hold the record of 37 unbeaten matches (2018-2021). This exceptional record places Italy at world football's summit.

Who are Italian football legends?

Giuseppe Meazza, Dino Zoff, Paolo Rossi, Roberto Baggio, Francesco Totti, Paolo Maldini, Alessandro Del Piero, and more recently Giorgio Chiellini and Gianluigi Buffon marked history. These players embody calcio excellence and are revered by tifosi.

Why is Italy nicknamed the Azzurri?

'Azzurri' means 'the Blues' in Italian, referencing the jersey color inspired by the House of Savoy. They're also called 'La Squadra Azzurra' or 'La Nazionale'. This blue has become a national symbol transcending sport.

What is Italian catenaccio?

Catenaccio (lock in Italian) is a legendary defensive system developed in Italy, prioritizing hermetic defense and counter-attacks. This tactical philosophy dominated Italian football for decades and enabled the Azzurri to win numerous titles through defensive solidity.

Why did Italy miss two World Cups?

Missing the 2018 and 2022 World Cups constitutes national trauma. These playoff failures (against Sweden then North Macedonia) resulted from difficult generational transition. However, Euro 2020 victory proved La Squadra remains competitive at the highest level.

What is the atmosphere like at Italian matches?

The atmosphere in Italian stadiums is exceptional with passionate tifosi creating a spectacle of chants and flags. The national anthem sung before each match generates intense emotion. Popular support for La Nazionale remains immense despite recent disappointments.

Can Italy regain its level?

Under Luciano Spalletti's direction, Italy works to rebuild a competitive team with a new generation. Foundations laid by Roberto Mancini and Serie A quality suggest rapid return to the summit. Euro 2024 qualification marks a first step.

What are Italy's objectives?

Italy aims to qualify for the 2026 World Cup and defend its European title. The Azzurri aspire to regain tournament favorite status and win a fifth World Cup. Development of a talented new generation is underway to ensure La Squadra's future.

Italy

Italy (ITA)

Overview

The Italian national team, the Azzurri (The Blues), is one of football history's most decorated teams with four World Cups. La Squadra Azzurra represents tradition, defensive art, and Italian calcio passion. Italy plays its matches in various stadiums across the peninsula, primarily at Rome's Stadio Olimpico and Milan's San Siro.

The Azzurri boast an exceptional record with 4 World Cups (1934, 1938, 1982, 2006) and 2 European Championships (1968, 2020). Italy also won one Confederations Cup and two Olympic gold medals. The national team stands out for legendary tactical organization, iron defense (catenaccio), and ability to perform in major tournaments.

La Nazionale maintains historic rivalries with France, Germany, and Brazil. Despite missing the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, Italy proved its resilience by winning Euro 2020. The Azzurri represent pride of a football-passionate nation where the blue jersey is sacred.

FAQ

General Information

Founded: 1898

Stadium: Stadio Artemio Franchi

Official Website: www.figc.it