Two words. Mario. Balotelli. The Italian National Team forward basically helped ensure Italy's triumph over the Germans today. I was initially going to write that he sealed the win, but that would not be accurate because the rest of the team did an excellent job of supporting and defending. Indeed, there were points in the game where the Italian goal areas were swarming with blue (the color of Italy's uniform), with Bella Italia's players doing their utmost to prevent the German's from scoring. Special shoutouts, as well, to keeper GG Buffon, Leonardo Bonucci, Antonio Cassano, and - really - the entire team for coming together as cohesive unit. They bolted out of the gate early, put a scoring distance between themselves and the Germans, and the concentrated on defending. A tremendous effort that saw the underdogs triumph over the much-touted Germans. Fact is, a lot of people were expecting Germany to triumph, and the Italians to go under. But never count out or underestimate an Italian...
And so... on Sunday in Kiev, Italy will battle Spain. As always, we will be rooting for Italy. I like Spain, as well, but I love Italy - and will always be on their side. Spain is a bit like the star pupil in the class - they won the 2010 World Cup, and have scored other lofty wins. It's time for the crafty, wily Italians to reclaim the throne and relive their 2006 World Cup glory.
Sunday cannot get here fast enough... Until then, the June reviews will post in a series of capsule reviews.
VIVA ITALIA!
