In Sion, the Italian women`s national football team, the `Azzurre`, are gearing up to begin their European championship campaign against Belgium. This opening match provides an opportunity for revenge against the team that eliminated Italy three years prior, on July 18, 2022. The squad`s preparation started in Weggis, Canton Lucerne, which is serving as their headquarters despite being located 280 kilometers away from the initial match venues in Sion and Geneva. Their journey truly kicks off with the debut match scheduled for Thursday at the Stade de Tourbillon.
Coach Andrea Soncin conveyed a strong sense of pride and emotion regarding the upcoming tournament. “Our dream began some time ago, and now we have the chance to live it all together,” he stated. “We worked hard to be here and to offer the girls a context where they could feel free to express their qualities. There is optimism and great confidence.” Soncin also stressed the importance of handling the pressure that comes with major events, focusing on the psychological and emotional readiness of the players. He acknowledged the team`s role in inspiring passionate fans, particularly young girls, emphasizing, “We must be proud of this position and we must give everything to transmit emotions to our public.”
The Belgian team, coached by Iceland`s Elisabet Gunnarsdottir, will be the Azzurre`s first opponent. Soncin commented on their style: “We know them well; they have many players who play in Italy and play in a modern way. We will need to pay close attention.” He also addressed the team captaincy, explaining that the role is traditionally assigned to the player with the most international appearances, a practice followed before his tenure. Therefore, the captain will be either Cristiana Girelli or, alternatively, Elena Linari, as has been the case previously. Soncin praised both players` leadership qualities, noting, “Both have always shown positive leadership, demonstrating a desire to put the group before the self. The captain must do just this: think of others first, a bit like the coach does.” The primary objective is to start the tournament successfully.