In the upcoming Euro feast, Albania's skipper Silvinho predicts with no small amount of confidence that the opening match will be as heavy as a mountain of psychological pressure for the players of arch-rivals Italy.
He asserted that despite Albania's difficulties in the qualifying stage, the team has sharpened its edge and is ready to compete with the strongest teams of the world on the stage of the Europa League.
Silvinho further noted that Italy, the ancient kingdom of soccer, has always been competitive. Citing the 2018 World Cup draw between Brazil and Switzerland as an example, he reminded Italy that if they lose their first match, they will be on thin ice in subsequent matches.
However, he also confessed that although Albania is not under as much pressure as Italy, the same sense of nervousness pervades the team. He revealed that the team is in a stable state of health and that the players are showing full commitment on the training ground.
Reflecting on his coaching career, Silvinho mentioned his coaching experience in Italy, especially his time as assistant coach of Inter Milan, which he believes benefited him greatly and praised the tactical system of Italian soccer.
As the Euros draw nearer, Silvinho and his Albanian team are ready to shine and look forward to a sparkling match against soccer powerhouses such as Italy.
