Italy manager Roberto Mancini praised Gianluigi Donnarumma after his side drew 1-1 with France, saying the Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper made crucial saves when his team was under pressure.
Mancini was pleased with Italy’s overall display and said the match showed the team’s collective character. Despite a difficult opening spell, his players defended and attacked together, eventually creating chances and competing until the final whistle.
“It was a very positive evening,” Mancini said in comments reported by French website Foot Mercato. “We knew the match would be difficult, but we managed to concede few goals and create good opportunities.”
Italy struggled during the first 20 minutes, but Mancini said the team had shown the ability to respond as a unit rather than allow the early pressure to dictate the match.
“We suffered during the first 20 minutes, but we must know how to deal with these difficulties together,” he added. “We tried to play even though it was not easy, and we went on to the pitch to score, which was excellent.
“Both teams could have won in the end. That is football. Results change opinions.”
The Italy manager reserved particular praise for Donnarumma, who he described in emphatic terms after the goalkeeper helped his side through the most demanding moments of the match.
“Donnarumma is the best goalkeeper in the world because when he is asked to save a shot, he does it,” said Mancini. “He saved us when it mattered.”
Mancini believes Italy have the potential to develop into an outstanding national team, although he acknowledged that progress will require patience.
“This team can become an excellent national side, but it will take some time,” he said. “We are progressing well. After the second half against Belgium, we gained confidence, although we knew we had to defend whenever necessary.”
