The eve of the Italy Under 21 national team’s match against North Macedonia, a crucial qualifier for the upcoming European Championship, saw head coach Silvio Baldini hold a press conference. During the briefing, Baldini took the opportunity to clarify the “Kayode case,” specifically addressing the unusual circumstances surrounding the player’s arrival at the training camp compared to his teammates.
Italy U21 Coach Baldini: “We Must Play with Enthusiasm”
Baldini conveyed a message of confidence ahead of the encounter with North Macedonia. He underscored the importance of securing second place in the group standings and keeping their hopes for direct qualification alive. He passionately urged his squad to approach the game with both enthusiasm and unwavering determination, stating: “We must play with enthusiasm and a burning desire to showcase our true capabilities. We are a fantastic group, and our growth is evident, backed by statistics. It’s imperative that we demonstrate this on the pitch with a strong performance. I am truly fortunate to work with such splendid young men who, every day, exhibit a keen desire to improve, maintain a positive outlook, and genuinely enjoy their time together, all while upholding the highest level of professionalism. Being among them is a divine gift.”
Baldini on North Macedonia: “There Are No Easy Matches”
Addressing the upcoming opponent, Baldini issued a stern warning against any form of underestimation. “In the realm of modern football, there are simply no predetermined outcomes. North Macedonia employs a 4-4-2 formation, featuring a striker, an attacking midfielder, and wide players who exploit space with long balls – we are fully aware of their tactical intentions. They undoubtedly possess their own technical strengths, but the ultimate result will hinge entirely on our approach. If we manage to maintain high concentration and the appropriate level of determination, we are capable of achieving an excellent result, both in terms of the scoreline and the overall quality of our play.”
