Italy, who haven’t overwhelmed England since 2012, appointed Soncin in September 2023 regardless of having solely ever labored in males’s soccer, but he has progressively gained over his critics.
“There was a good bit of scepticism about Soncin as a result of he got here in as somebody who solely had expertise within the males’s sport and who largely coached at youth stage,” Bandini says.
“However he has actually introduced one thing optimistic during the last couple of years and you may see that right here.
“I felt like coming into this event, the power across the group was a lot, a lot better than it had been at previous tournaments.”
And on the pitch in Switzerland the crew have delivered, ending second of their group behind event favourites Spain with performances which have proven tactical flexibility and a capability to capitalise on opponents’ weaknesses.
“[Against England] it’ll be a technically fascinating sport,” says Bandini. “I am actually curious to see how Italy method it, as a result of one of many strengths of Italy, one of many strengths of the coach at this event, is that he is proven he can change issues up.”
Italy have switched formations relying on the opposition, enjoying with a again 5 towards the formidable Spain and a again 4 towards Norway.
In opposition to the Norwegians, it was a transfer to focus on their weak point at full-back – a method that labored to perfection and could possibly be examined towards the Lionesses too.
“After we discuss England, we speak on a regular basis concerning the left-back place being one main headache that is constantly come up for Sarina Wiegman,” Bandini says.
“Even while you have a look at the alternative facet, Lucy Bronze likes to go ahead. That is a part of her sport.
“So I can very a lot see the large areas being a spotlight on this sport. They are surely the power of this Italy crew – the choices they’ve there are actually robust.”
If Italy go to a again three, Bandini expects the wing-backs – Lisa Boattin and Lucia di Guglielmo – to threaten England with their dribbling abilities.
“Italy have so many gamers who’re assured operating with the ball,” she provides.
