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Namibia secured a comfortable 2-0 victory over Zimbabwe in an encounter that took place at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium on Sunday evening.

Zimbabwe, who have won a record six Cosafa Cup titles, were keen to record their maiden victory in this year's tournament, while Namibia were hoping to make it two wins in a row.

The two teams were unable to find the back of the net in the first half which had few chances.

The deadlock was broken 25 minutes into the second half when defender Qadar Amini netted an unfortunate own goal to hand Namibia's Brave Warriors a 1-0 lead.

The Warriors of Zimbabwe then surged forward in numbers as they looked to level matters, but they were left vulnerable at the back.

They were punished by eventual Man of the Match Elmo Kambindu, who hit the back of the net in the 86th minute to seal Nambia's victory over Zimbabwe.

The win took Namibia to the top of the Group B standings, while Zimbabwe remained fourth on the table.

Namibia are scheduled to take on Malawi on Tuesday and Zimbabwe will square off with tournament guests Senegal on the same day.

Meanwhile, Mozambique claimed a well-deserved 2-0 win over a struggling Malawi side in another game which was played at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

Both teams were desperate to register their maiden win in this year's tournament, but there were no goals in the first half.

A second-half which was dominated by Mozambique followed as they broke the deadlock through Victor Jacinto Tesoura Junior to hand the Black Mambas a 1-0 lead in the 54th minute.

Mozambique went 2-0 up in the 68th minute when Francisco Simbine beat Malawi goalkeeper Ernest Kakhobwe to double his side's lead against the Flames.

The win took Mozambique to second-place on the Group B standings, while Malawi remained fifth on the table.

Mozambique's next game is against Namibia on Wednesday.

England fans desperate to see their side in the Euro 2020 final against Italy have broken a security cordon around Wembley and tried to get into the stadium.

Reports around the ground suggest that numerous fans have managed to break security cordons in an effort to gain access to the stadium, although just how many have done so is unclear.

Sunday’s game represents England’s biggest match since the 1966 World Cup final – also at Wembley – as it is the first major final that the Three Lions have played since then.

What’s happened?

Telegraph journalist Sam Wallace posted a video on Twitter of the incidents, adding: “Febrile atmosphere at Wembley. This is near the main entrance to Club Wembley a few minutes ago where it looked like a group of fans broke through the security cordon. Stewards currently chasing people around. Not sure they’ll get all the way to the wine and canapés.

“Just seen another fan jump down a 20 foot+ wall to try to get into the inner cordon near the media entrance. He’s telling the stewards escorting him away he had his ticket stolen. You don’t get this for a November World Cup qualifier against Bulgaria.”

Chris Kamara, a popular pundit, added: "Horrendous walk down Wembley way, ended up dodging bottles and beer thrown in the air & walking on broken glass all the way. What is wrong with people?"

More video footage has emerged, meanwhile, of a large group of fans who broke a security cordon to gain access to the outer areas of the stadium.

What's it like around the ground?

Goal correspondent Nizaar Kinsella has explained what the atmosphere is like at the ground:

"There's some concern in the press box at Wembley, with journalists sharing stories of scenes witnessed on the 156-metre walk leading up to the stadium. 

"People have had their credentials stolen, there have been fights, displays of public nudity and 40 or so people tried to rush into the VIP club Wembley seats without tickets. 

"Personally, I witnessed some dangerous scenes with people climbing up scaffolding and an injured supporter with blood all down his face. 

"It has led to an atmosphere among security and police of concern as they risk being outnumbered before the showpiece event. Metal barriers have been erected now to try to control a crowd where many have consumed a significant amount of alcohol."

What has been said?

A Wembley Stadium spokesperson said: "We are dealing with an incident that occurred at the outer security perimeter area of the stadium, with support from police.

"Safety measures were quickly activated in the relevant areas and there were no security breaches of people without tickets getting inside the stadium."

Further reading

EA Sports has given fans a sneak peak at FIFA 2022, the latest version of the popular video game franchise.

It has billed the game as “football’s most realistic and immersive gameplay experience” and notes that it will be available to play across next-gen consoles and Stadia when it is released on October 1.

HyperMotion technology is set to enhance the game further, making the game more realistic, fluid and responsive than ever before. In short, it will be the closest experience to real-life football yet available on a console.

This HyperMotion technology has been attained by using motion capture of 22 professional players at high intensity. EA Sports boasts that its learning algorithm has taken more than 8.7 million frames of advanced motion capture and has written animation in real time to create the most realistic movement in video game history.

“FIFA 22 offers millions of fans around the world a chance to engage with the sport they love in an unprecedented way,” said Nick Wlodyka, GM, EA SPORTS FIFA. “Each player experiences FIFA in their own way but on-pitch gameplay is the unifying constant, so we’re excited to offer deep innovation there. HyperMotion elevates that even further on next-gen consoles and Stadia and completely changes the feel of the game”.

Paris Saint-Germain attacker Kylian Mbappe has expressed his delight at joining Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi as a back-to-back cover star for the franchise.

“Being on back-to-back FIFA covers is amazing,” he said. “I have a very special relationship with the game and look forward to enjoying FIFA 22 alongside all of you.”

As ever, FIFA 22 will be thoroughly comprehensive in its outlook with top-level football. It will feature 17,000 players across 700 teams and more than 90 stadiums. Furthermore, it boasts the UEFA Champions League and UEFA Europa League, as well as other top competitions such as the Premier League and Bundesliga.

It will be available from October 1, although EA Play members will have early trial access and monthly in-game rewards.

One of the best parts of participating in international football is feeling a deep sense of connection to one's homeland, so the singing of the national anthem before matches can provide an emotional boost to many players.

Each side lines up in single rows, often with hands over hearts, to recite their respective songs.

Not every player loves the tradition - some have complicated relationships with their governments, for example - but it has nonetheless become a staple of the game.

Goal examines the Mexican national anthem and its history.

Mexico football team national anthem

The Mexican national anthem, like many anthems around the world, draws upon battle themes and inspiration.

Composed in 1854 by Jaime Nuno and written by Francisco Gonzalez Bocanegra, it asks for eternal unity and patriotism from the Mexican people in times of war.

Bocanegra entered the work in a contest staged by the government and won, though his effort was not fully appreciated by the public until after his death at just 37 years old.

'Himno Nacional' full translated lyrics

Himno Nacional has been shortened from its 1943 version for sporting events, using only the first three stanzas for the sake of brevity.

Even the 1943 edition used elsewhere outside of entertainment is an abbreviated version of an original one that included 10 stanzas interspersed with the chorus.

Below is the current anthem, with just the first three paragraphs recited before football matches.

Himno Nacional

Mexicans, at the cry of battle
lend your swords and bridle;
and let the earth tremble at its center
upon the roar of the cannon.

Your forehead shall be girded, oh fatherland, with olive garlands
by the divine archangel of peace,
For in heaven your eternal destiny
has been written by the finger of God.
But should a foreign enemy
Profane your land with his sole,
Think, beloved fatherland, that heaven
gave you a soldier in each son.

Mexicans, at the cry of battle
lend your swords and bridle;
and let the earth tremble at its center
upon the roar of the cannon.

War, war without truce against who would attempt
to blemish the honor of the fatherland!
War, war! The patriotic banners
saturate in waves of blood.
War, war! On the mount, in the vale
The terrifying cannon thunder
and the echoes nobly resound
to the cries of union! liberty!

Mexicans, at the cry of battle
lend your swords and bridle;
and let the earth tremble at its center
upon the roar of the cannon.

Fatherland, before your children become unarmed
Beneath the yoke their necks in sway,
May your countryside be watered with blood,
On blood their feet trample.
And may your temples, palaces and towers
crumble in horrid crash,
and their ruins exist saying:
The fatherland was made of one thousand heroes here.

Fatherland, fatherland, your children swear
to exhale their breath in your cause,
If the bugle in its belligerent tone
should call upon them to struggle with bravery.
For you the olive garlands!
For them a memory of glory!
For you a laurel of victory!
For them a tomb of honor!

Mexican anthem video

Further reading

Euro 2020 is officially a tournament played without a single host country but instead is considered a pan-European tournament.

Nevertheless, the closing stages of the tournament have been played exclusively at Wembley Stadium, with England having had the advantage of playing six of their seven games at their habitual home ground.

For that reason, it has been considered that England are effectively the host country.

But how big an advantage is being the host nation? Goal takes a look.

Do hosts have an advantage in World Cup & Euros?

Naturally, there is some advantage to host nations in terms of often being allowed to be based at one stadium, which is regularly the one in which they are most accustomed to playing at.

This European Championship, meanwhile, offers a unique advantage to England, who have made only one journey over the course of this tournament – the relatively short jaunt to Rome.

By contrast, Denmark, who were their semi-final opponents, had made the 12-hour round trip to Baku for a match just four days before the last-four game.

Italy, meanwhile, have not made such significant journeys, having already played at Wembley (twice) and Munich en route to the final.

Indeed, it is notable that all four semi-finalists played all their group matches in their home stadiums, suggesting there is some advantage to known territory.

How many times have hosts won the Euros?

History suggests that, in the European Championship, it is not too significant. Indeed, in the competition’s history, only three hosts have won the tournament – and not a single one since France triumphed in 1984.

Before them, Spain came out on top in 1964 and Italy won the 1968 edition.

Host nations reaching the final is a more commonplace achievement, however, with France edged by Portugal 1-0 after extra time in 2016. Prior to that, Portugal had reached the final of their own tournament in 2004 only to be stunned by surprise package Greece, who ground their way to a 1-0 win in Lisbon.

How many times have hosts won the World Cup?

Host nations have won the World Cup on six occasions.

The last host nation to win the World Cup was also France, who picked up their first trophy in 1998 at the Stade de France, which was then newly constructed.

Prior to that, Argentina (1978), West Germany (1974) and England (1966) had won the tournament as hosts in the post-War era.

Meanwhile, the first two World Cup tournaments were won by host nations Uruguay (1930) and Italy (1934), though in those days teams often spent days journeying due to the lack of air transport.

Indeed, Brazil were famously the only team to win the tournament outside of their home continent until Spain claimed the 2010 trophy, underlining how tough an achievement it was.

Brazil have also been the victims of the two biggest shock losses as World Cup hosts, back in 1950 as they lost 2-1 in the final to Uruguay and in 2014 when they lost 7-1 in the semi-final to Germany and subsequently finished fourth.

England will play a back five against Italy in the final of Euro 2020 with Kieran Trippier replacing Bukayo Saka in the starting XI, Goal has learned.

Gareth Southgate has generally used a 4-2-3-1 formation through England's run to a first major final for 55 years, however, they did play with a 3-5-2 against Germany in the round of 16.

Goal has learned that a similar tactic will be deployed to nullify the attacking threat of the Italians at Wembley on Sunday evening, with Atletico Madrid right-back Trippier coming in.

Who will play for England?

Jordan Pickford is expected to keep his place in goal for England, having only let in one goal in six matches at Euro 2020, breaking 1966 World Cup-winning keeper Gordon Banks' record for consecutive minutes without conceding along the way.

In front of him, it is expected England will deploy three central defenders, with Kyle Walker moving in from right-back alongside John Stones and Harry Maguire, as he did to good effect in the 2-0 win over the Germans.

Trippier played right wing-back in that match and will do the same in the final, with Manchester United's Luke Shaw on the left.

Declan Rice and Kalvin Phillips will be maintained in their holding midfield roles, it is understood, despite speculation that the more experienced Jordan Henderson might return.

Mason Mount, who has played as an attacking central midfielder through most of Euro 2020, is instead set to play as part of the forward three alongside Raheem Sterling and captain Harry Kane.

Saka played as one of the front men against Germany, however, regular starter Mount was ruled out of that match as he had to self-isolate after being a close contact with Scotland midfielder Billy Gilmour, who tested positive for coronavirus.

Who misses out?

Aside from Saka, who is unfortunate to miss out after some impressive performances at Euro 2020, Phil Foden is also set to not be picked in the starting XI after missing training on Saturday with a foot problem.

They could both be used from the subs' bench, however, in what is England's first major final since winning the World Cup at Wembley in 1966.

Further Reading

Moreso than most other countries, the national anthem has long been a pre-game staple in American sports.

Virtually every sporting event in America is kick-started by the playing of the Star-Spangled Banner in a ceremony that has become a major point of contention in recent years.

Here, Goal takes a look at how the national anthem came to be and its history with the sport of soccer.

How did the Star-Spangled Banner become the national anthem?

Officially named as the national anthem of the United States of America in 1931, the lyrics to the Star-Spangled Banner were originally written on September 14, 1814, by Francis Scott Key.

Key, a lawyer and poet, penned what would eventually become the Star-Spangled Banner after witnessing the bombardment of Fort McHenry by British ships of the Royal Navy during the War of 1812.

In particular, the song was inspired by the sight of the American flag flying high above the battlefield following a U.S. victory.

Originally a poem titled the Defence of Fort M'Henry, the words were eventually put to the music behind To Anacreon in Heaven, a popular song at the time.

It soon emerged as a song to signify patriotism, although the original lyrics have been shortened with only the first of the piece's four original stanzas commonly sung today.

Prior to the Star-Spangled Banner, the U.S. had several other unofficial national anthems, including Hail, Columbia, My Country, 'Tis of Thee and America the Beautiful.

Star-Spangled Banner lyrics in full

O say can you see, by the dawn's early light,
What so proudly we hailed at the twilight's last gleaming,
Whose broad stripes and bright stars through the perilous fight,
O'er the ramparts we watched, were so gallantly streaming?
And the rocket's red glare, the bombs bursting in air,
Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there;
O say does that star-spangled banner yet wave
O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave.

Why is the national anthem played before sporting events?

The playing of the Star-Spangled Banner before sporting events began all the way back in the 1890s, as the song was played occasionally before professional baseball games.

It was largely saved for big games, as teams couldn't afford to hire bands to regularly play the anthem, but, as the 20th century progressed, the introduction of sound systems to stadiums allowed the anthem to be played more regularly.

With a rise in patriotism following World War II, the anthem became a regular part of American society, played at sporting events, theatres and in schools, among other places.

It has been a mainstay of American sports ever since, with the pre-game ceremony becoming a staple that often features big-name celebrities and musicians performing the song.

When it comes to soccer, the anthem is played before every MLS and NWSL game and even before international friendlies featuring non-American clubs.

The song is also obviously played before every U.S. men's and women's national team game, much like with other national teams all over the world.

When did athletes start protesting the national anthem?

The pre-game national anthem ceremony was thrust into the limelight in August 2016, when NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick began to take a knee during the song to protest racism and police brutality.

His display quickly spread across sports, with Megan Rapinoe becoming the first USWNT player to kneel during the anthem before an international fixture in 2016.

At the time, U.S. Soccer had a policy that required athletes to stand respectfully during the anthem, but that policy was called into question following the killing of George Floyd in 2020.

Floyd's death sparked protests all over the world, with Kaepernick's original display once again coming into focus.

As a result, players across sports began to take a knee during the anthem as a sign of unity in the fight against police brutality and racism. The display also extended far outside of America's borders, with taking a knee also emerging across Europe.

U.S. Soccer went on to repeal its anthem policy in June, angering then-President Donald Trump in the process.

In the immediate aftermath, the USWNT, in particular, saw a majority of their players opt to kneel, with a few usually standing alongside their teammates.

However, in February 2021, the entire USWNT starting XI opted to stand for the anthem, with Crystal Dunn saying that the group had decided it was now time for a different response: action.

"Those that were collectively kneeling felt like we were kneeling to bring about attention to police brutality and systemic racism, and I think we decided that moving forward we no longer feel the need to kneel because we are doing the work behind the scenes," Dunn said.

"We never felt we were going to kneel forever, so there was always going to be a time that we felt it was time to stand. 

"I think we're all proud that we are doing the work behind the scenes and it was just a game that we felt we were ready to move into the next phase and just continuously fight for change."

Further reading

Tusker have managed to pick up a point from a 2-2 draw against KCB in an FKF Premier League encounter at Thika Stadium on Sunday.

Derrick Otanga's brace handed the Bankers a first-half lead only for the Brewers to launch a counter-attacking strategy that helped them score twice through Humphrey Mieno and Jackson Macharia in the second half to win a point against their closest rivals.

Boniface Muchiri was unable to break the deadlock in the fourth minute after breaking through from the left flank only to see his final feeble shot collected by Josep Okoth in KCB's goal.

The Bankers managed to open the scores in the 18th minute through Otanga as Michael Oduor played a key role in creating the valuable chance.

The opener was a deserved reward for the hosts as they were more dominant than the Premier League leaders.

The former Sony Sugar and Wazito FC striker added the second in the 24th minute as Tusker struggled to contain their ambitious opponents. The Brewers goalkeeper Michael Wanjala made a mistake that allowed Otanga to move swiftly and fire home.

After going down twice and struggling, especially in the midfield, Robert Matano made a change two minutes after the half-hour mark as Faraj Ominde was replaced by Mieno.

KCB would have made it 3-0 in the 43rd minute but Reagan Otieno was unable to find the back of the net when he had been spotted in a vantaged position by Otanga.

Tusker came close to denying KCB a clean sheet in the 45th-minute when Sammy Meja worked through the left flank and set up his younger brother through on goal, only for the youngster to head wide from a promising position.

Another chance for the visitors to get a goal came in the 59th minute when Muchiri, Mieno, and Meja led a good build-up only for the latter to squander the chance as he shot wide from close range.

The Brewers' calls for a penalty were dismissed in the 62nd minute when Nahashon Alembi looked to have handled the ball in his area as he attempted to make a clearance.

Matano made more changes in the 68th minute as he introduced Erick Zakayo, Chris Ochieng, and Macharia for Brian Marita, Meja, and Kepha Okoth.

The changes re-energised Tusker, who scored their first goal in the 71st minute when Okoth fumbled the ball and allowed Mieno to collect and tap home.

Mieno played a key role in getting the second after his long-range cross landed on Macharia's path and the midfielder controlled it before tapping home rather easily in the 80th minute.

The draw means Tusker will remain at the top and KCB will keep second place on the log. 

KCB XI: Joseph Okoth, Baraka Badi, Dennis Odhiambo, Rama Mwendwa, Nahashon Alembi, Brian Ndenga, Michael Oduor, Vincent Wasambo, Derrick Otanga, David Simiyu, Reagan Otieno.

Subs: Daniel Oduor, Simon Munala, Victor Ochami, Samuel Mwangi, Bethuel Achola, Brian Wepo, Victor Omondi, Martin Mbugua, David Ambulu, Harun Thomas, Curtis Wekesa.

Tusker XI: Michael Wanjala, Kevin Monyi, Sammy Meja, Rodgers Aloro, Eugene Asike, Hashim Sempala, Brian Marita, Faraj Odeny, Henry Meja, Kelvin Okoth, Boniface Muchiri.

Subs: Robert Mboya, Jimmy Mbugua, Erick Ambunya, Humphrey Mieno, Jackson Macharia, Chrispinus Onyango, Chris Ochieng, George Odhiambo, Zakayo Erick.

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Whether it’s excitement for the Euros or simply the promise of warm weather that’s inspired you to take to the pitch, there’s one piece of equipment it’s impossible to play football without: the ball itself. 

There are hundreds, if not thousands, of footballs currently on the market, and while the differences between each are often subtle, there are definite differences. So to help you find the perfect ball for your next kick-around, here are some of the best currently available on Amazon. Don’t just take our word for it, all of these suggested balls are backed up by dozens of glowing reviews. 

Approved by FIFA, Mitre’s mid-level professional ball is suitable for play on grass and astroturf. The Mitre Delta has a 14-panel configuration and comes with Mitre’s Hyperseam technology, giving the ball more durability and better resistance against water.

Rating: 4.6/5
No. Reviews: 375

Promising reviews : 

"Nice weight to this ball, if you’ve used the Adidas tango then this is a little weightier again which means it is better for striking. Keeps inflated, in good shape and has lasted well. Would recommend." – Onion Chief

“Excellent quality and performance. Robust also – have been playing on astroturf for the last 12 months (once a week, hour & half, adults), with no issues, no tears or delamination of outer PU. Also perfectly round and stayed that way. Loses minimal air every week – I've got a gauge to ensure bob on 10psi. Very satisfied.” – Andy B

Get it from Amazon for £33.83

The Puma TeamFINAL 21.6 MS is an entry-level training ball that’s great for honing your skills on the pitch. Durable TPU casing, TPE foam and a polyester backing ensure long-lasting play while delivering control, power, and accuracy.

Rating: 4.6/5
No. Reviews: 707

Promising reviews:

“Great item! Used for more than 10 times and still perfect as expected.” – Rodrigo de Matos

“It has a lovely sweet spot which makes it easy to connect with, and travels much quicker than other footballs.” – Charlie  

Get it from Amazon for £12.73

Built for use on both grass and astroturf, this ball won't let you down on the pitch. It’s machine sewn, made from durable TPU, and comes complete with UEFA Champions League design and classic Adidas logo.

Rating: 4.5/5
No. Reviews: 274

Promising reviews: 

“Product exactly what I was looking for, great quality and a fantastic appearance.” – Joshua Castillo

“Great ball. Really good quality” – Mike

Get it from Amazon for £20.42

Over 11,000 people have felt compelled to leave a review for this football. It comes in at the cheaper range at only £10 and is available in four different sizes and 10 different designs. A head's up though, the ball arrives deflated so you'll need a pump before heading out to the pitch. 

Rating: 4.6/5
No. reviews: 11,533

Promising reviews:

"A very well-made football that stands up very well to almost constant use. A great success." – M. Menage

"It's the best cheap ball money can buy. Mitre balls are solid. It's not a light ball that floats and can't be used for matches." – Christian Cooke

Get it from Amazon for £12.49

The Nike Pitch is constructed using a 12-panel design and made up of 60% rubber, 15% polyurethane, 13% polyester and 12% EVA. The ball is available in four different but equally attention-grabbing designs. 

Rating:  4.5/5
No. reviews:  5,048

Promising reviews:

"This ball got really good feedback from the players. I organise a leisure football game every week and have tried some different types of balls over the years, anyway this seems to have hit the right spot for the majority of our players, in respect of feel and cushion control – result at last." – Tips 42

"Good quality and great for a kick around." – Steve

Get it from Amazon for £20.90

The lowest-rated ball on this list, but also the lowest priced at just £8. An ideal beginner ball for young children or when you need something for a one-off kick-around. According to a surprisingly large number of reviewers, it also serves as a great toy for the dog.  

Rating: 4.3/5
No. Reviews: 3,138

Promising reviews:

“Had our ball for a couple of weeks now - so good so far. It's still round, still holds air well and bounces high. Bought for a recreational kick about in the park and this ball serves this purpose well”. – Yevheniy

“Good value for money, the band lasted a long time and was extremely sturdy although hitting the edges of walls. The ball is not too big or too small. Would recommend to freestyle footballers.” – Ali Abbas

Get it from Amazon for £8

A great entry-level ball that is perfect for light training or spontaneous games in the park. The Durable outer and superior air-retention bladder guarantees it'll withstand heavy usage and all types of weather. This is the official replica of the EFL Delta, and the ball arrives deflated.

Rating: 4.6/5
No. Reviews: 1,794

Promising reviews:  

“I love these Mitre footballs – still the best. Good weight and feel, and last much longer than some of the other footballs in this price bracket”. – Gav

“Great ball for training and five-a-side. Decent weight and longevity.” – L. Button

Get it from Amazon for £12.50

The vivid colours give you better visibility, making it nearly impossible to lose sight of the ball. Beyond its eye-catching design, the Nike Strike contains a butyl bladder to provide perfect air and shape retention.

Rating: 4.3/5
No. Reviews: 87

Promising reviews:

“Top quality football in keeping with my expectations of Nike. Nicely textured rather than smooth to provide some grip on the toe so you can practice curling it into the corner!” – Sir Bobster 

“Fantastic ball” – Amazon Customer 

Get it from Amazon for £27.50

This striking ball is manufactured by football producing giants ‎Mitre, so you’re guaranteed consistency from one session to the next. This is all about showing your support for England on the pitch though, and with a design this bold, no one within a 20-mile radius will be questioning your loyalty.  

Rating: 4.5/5
No. Reviews: 670

Promising reviews:

“Great looking football, well worth the money.” – Jason Etches

“Bought this for a garden playground kick about and was really amazed at the quality for the price. Great value!”  – Trevor Daniel Kisten

Get it from Amazon for £8.00

Italy are one of the most successful teams in international football, with a long history of competing at the business end of major tournaments.

They have competed in their fair share of penalty shootouts along the way and have even had to make the dreaded walk in two World Cup finals.

Goal brings you all the details about Italy's penalty shootout record, who they have won and lost against, and when.

Italy have been in 10 penalty shootouts at major tournaments and they have won four of them, losing six.

Of the 10 shootouts they have contested, six of them have come at the European Championship and four at the World Cup.

Two of their penalty shootouts have come in the World Cup final - they lost to Brazil in 1994 and won against France in 2006.

Interestingly, Italy lost the first four penalty shootouts they were involved in, suffering defeat at the hands of Czechoslovakia, Argentina, Brazil and France.

Their first penalty shootout victory came at Euro 2000, when they beat the Netherlands in the semi-final. Since then, their record in shootouts has been good, winning three more times in five contests.

While it would be glib to suggest that Italy have become uniquely adept at winning penalty shootouts, with four wins from six since the turn of the century, they win two times out of three.

There is no doubt that they know how to navigate them, regularly producing players who seem at ease with the pressure of taking penalties.

They scored all of their penalties in the 2006 World Cup final victory against France, for example, while Andrea Pirlo's Panenka penalty against Joe Hart at Euro 2012 is a classic moment.

Similarly, the demeanour of Giorgio Chiellini ahead of the semi-final penalty shootout against Spain at Euro 2020 was remarked upon as an indicator of Italy's comfort with the pressure of the 12-yard showdown.

The legendary defender was full of smiles and laughs with Spain captain Jordi Alba during the coin-toss to determine which team went first, but denied that he was engaged in 'mind games'. 

"I always have a smile on my face but have the utmost respect for my opponents," Chiellini explained. 

"I will hug them, smile or have a laugh but that’s something that I have always done. I have done that in these games and even more so in this European Championship.

"I am trying to really enjoy every single moment."

Former Nigeria international Ndubisi Chukunyere says he went into depression after he was forced to quit football due to persistent injury worries.

The retired striker suffered a knock on his knee during his time at Nigeria Professional Football League side Kano Pillars in 1993.

Despite playing with the injury when it was not yet completely healed, the Nigerian kept putting up impressive performances – which earned him a move to Malta top-flight side, Hibernians in 1997.

However, his knee problems resurfaced and that cost him a bumper deal to Boavista Zenith and St. Petersburg. As if that was not enough, he decided to hang up his boots aged 27.

In a no-holds-barred chat with Goal, he reveals he battled through a number of difficult moments knowing his football dreams had come to an end.

“Whenever I talk about how injury put an end to my career, I am always in tears. My professional career ended at 27 and this is a fact no one except you knows,” a sobbing Chukunyere narrated to Goal.

“Until now, I kept it to myself because I was depressed. I started nursing a knee injury in 1993 but because of the weather conditions in Nigeria, I was not feeling it.

“While I was at Stationery Stores, I would take painkillers before every game. This continued too at Kano Pillars as several injections would go into my knees before every league game.”

Following his arrival in Malta having left Nigeria Professional League side, Kano Pillars in 1997, Chukunyere – father of Malta’s music celebrity Destiny – thought that his injury nightmare was over.

Nonetheless, he was yet to experience the worst as that cost him bigger opportunities.  

“When I got to Malta, it got worse after three seasons. In 2003, I went for a scan and the professor told me that the injury was a chronic one, but I argued with him saying he was wrong,” he continued.

“Deep down in my heart, I knew where the problem was coming from. Three surgeries were performed on my knees, yet it was still the same old story.

“The most painful thing was that after I earned my first cap, coach Christian Chukwu called me for the World Cup and Africa Cup of Nations qualifications, but I was unable to honour them because of injury.

“Had it not been for my injury setback, I should have garnered about 50 caps for the Super Eagles. It was then the reality was dawned on me that I can’t play football any longer and I had to quit.

“Even at that, I managed to play up until 2007 but I wasn’t the same player I used to be. Before then, Boavista signed me from Hibernians but I failed my medicals.

“Well, I knew that I would fail but I just wanted to take a risk. The same thing happened when Zenith St. Petersburg wanted my services.”

Now 41-years-old, he discloses how he tried his luck playing tennis and handball, before settling to become a successful businessman in the Southern European country.

Yet, he whimpers about what his early exit from the beautiful game caused him.

“Every Nigerian’s dream is to play for the Super Eagles. I don’t know what is obtainable now, then, it was a thing of pride wearing the green and white jersey,” he added.

“Making my senior national team debut made me a proud son of Ajegunle – where I am from and my family.

“If I knew that my knee injury would cost me bigger and greater opportunities, I would have taken care of my injury a long time ago.

“To date, I regret not having at least 15 caps for the Super Eagles.”

New Bayern Munich boss Julian Nagelsmann admits he is a fan of Federico Chiesa - but says the Italy forward is out of the club’s financial reach.

Chiesa has risen to international prominence thanks to his performances at Euro 2020, where he has helped the Azzurri reach Sunday’s final against England.

That led to speculation Bayern could make a big-money move for the 23-year-old, but Nagelsmann has moved quickly to deny those rumours.

What did Nagelsmann say?

Chiesa is about to begin the second season of a two-year loan at Juventus from parent club Fiorentina, having scored 14 goals in 43 appearances for the Bianconeri last season.

The forward has been valued in the region of €60 million (£51m/$71m) -  a price-tag out of Bayern’s reach.

"Yes, he's good but he's expensive, too,” Nagelsmann told Bild. “He's a top player, with incredible drive. I known him for a long time and I find him exceptional because he often goes for a one-on-one, he tries to shoot very fast."

New Gnabry position considered

Nagelsmann also revealed that he is considering playing Serge Gnabry in a different position at times this season.

The Germany international is usually deployed as a winger or No 10 but Nagelsmann, who worked with Gnabry during his time in charge of Hoffenheim, believes he could fill in at right-back.

"It's always about thinking: How do our opponents play? So it can be an option, but certainly not the solution for 34 game days," added Nagelsmann, who joined Bayern from RB Leipzig earlier this summer. “He is not a top-notch solution for this position. Serge's position is more central in front, on ten, in half space or on the wing, that's where he plays his best.”

Further reading

England and Italy meet in the final of Euro 2020 on Sunday, with over 60,000 supporters set to attend Wembley in the continental showpiece.

Watch Italy vs England on fuboTV (free 7-day trial)

The Three Lions will attempt to finally end 55 years of major tournament heartache by lifting the trophy, but a strong Azzurri team stands in the way.

Ahead of the game, Goal has the details of how to watch on TV, stream online, team news and more.

TV channel, live stream & how to watch

In the United States (US), the game can be watched live and on-demand with fuboTV (watch with a 7-day free trial).

New users can sign up for a free seven-day trial of the live sports streaming service, which can be accessed via iOS, Android, Chromecast, Amazon Fire TV, Roku and Apple TV as well as on a web browser.

Team news and squads

Leonardo Spinazzola was one of Italy's star players at this tournament but is unavailable after suffering an achilles ligament injury. Emerson replaced him and will continue to deputise in the final.

Roberto Mancini has no other pressing concerns and the Italian XI is relatively settled at this point, with Federico Chiesa forcing his way into the team ahead of Domenico Berardi on the wing.

Predicted Italy starting XI: Donnarumma; Emerson, Chiellini, Bonucci, Di Lorenzo; Verratti, Barella, Jorginho; Chiesa, Insigne, Immobile

Phil Foden has not featured as much as he would have liked at this tournament and is considered a doubt with what Gareth Southgate described as "a minor foot injury".

Bukayo Saka returned to the team for the semi-final win against Denmark and is expected to retain his place after being involved in England's equaliser. 

While Southgate has persisted with the central midfield partnership of Declan Rice and Kalvin Phillips, there have been suggestions that Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson could start.

Predicted England starting XI: Pickford; Shaw, Maguire, Stones, Walker; Rice, Phillips, Mount; Sterling, Saka, Kane

Recent results and head-to-head

Last five results

Head-to-head

England tackle Italy in the final of the Euros staged at the iconic Wembley Stadium in London on Sunday night.

Unbeaten in their last 12 games in all competitions, Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions would be hoping to win the quadrennial football championship for the first time ever.

Gli Azzurri last emerged as champions 53 years ago. They reached the final of the 2000 and 2012 editions – yet ended up on the losing side.  

Below Goal provides what Nigerian viewers need to know about where to watch Roberto Mancini’s team lock horns with Harry Kane and co.

Where to watch or stream Italy vs England in Nigeria

The Euro 2020 final is telecast on SuperSport, Hesgoal.com and Bein Sports in Nigeria.

Euro 2020 Final Preview

Judging by the awe-inspiring performances of both teams in recent outings, Sunday’s final promises to live up to the billing.

England and Italy last met in an international friendly in Wembley on March 27, 2018 – which ended in a 1-1 draw.

Jamie Vardy had put the Three Lions ahead in the 26th minute before Lorenzo Insigne’s effort from the penalty spot ended the game all square.

The Tottenham Hotspur star has been directly involved in 28 goals in his last 27 appearances for England in all competitions. Should he find the net, that will see him equal Gary Lineker’s feat as the country’s highest goalscorer in major tournaments.
 

Italy's Road to the Euro Final

The Italians were in Group A alongside Wales, Switzerland and Turkey. Mancini’s team topped the group stage with all nine points. In the Round of 16, they saw off Austria 2-1 before overcoming Belgium by the same margin in the quarter-finals. Italy beat Spain 4-2 on penalties in the last four as the score after extra-time stood at 1-1.

England's Road to the Euro Final

Hosts England were in Group D alongside Croatia, Scotland and the Czech Republic. The Three Lions topped that zone with seven points. In the Round of 16, goals from Harry Kane and Raheem Sterling saw them dismiss Germany 2-0. They were ruthless against Ukraine in the last eight – pummelling Andriy Shevchenko’s men 4-0 in Rome. To reach the final, they laboured to a 2-1 victory over Denmark.

Former Italy midfielder Gianluca Zambrotta has backed the current squad to begin a new cycle of success for the Azzurri, starting with victory over England in Sunday's Euro 2020 final.

Zambrotta was part of the Italy side that lifted the World Cup in 2006 but feels it has taken time for a new generation to emerge.

They have not won the European Championship since 1968 and have been beaten in the final and quarter-final of the last two tournaments - though Zambrotta thinks they are capable of going all the way this time.

What did Zambrotta say?

Speaking to Goal, the former Juventus, Barcelona and Milan full-back said: “There are cycles in football. After the 2006 and 2010 World Cups, the Italian national team changed generation and it took a few years to become a competitive team again.

"As early as 2012, the national team reached the final against Spain with (Cesare) Prandelli and reached the European Championship in 2016.

"They were different eras, but I have to say that Italy is now younger and bigger in terms of gameplay and players. This is a new Italy with important results coming in the right way and at the right time.

“This generation hopes to win the European Championship and then qualify for the World Cup in Qatar in 2022. A team created at a crucial moment; we hope they can give us great satisfaction."

‘Both teams deserve to be the final’

Zambrotta believes England and Italy have been the two best teams in the tournament and deserve to be lining up at Wembley on Sunday.

The 44-year-old thinks home advantage could prove crucial for the Three Lions, though the pressure to end England’s 55-year wait for a trophy may weigh heavy on the players’ shoulders.

"It's hard to say whether Italy will win, England also made an important journey to the final. They play at home and that's an advantage, but it can be bad if you can't handle the pressure,” he aid. “It will be an open match, both teams deserve to be the final.

“England has always had a national team with an important football tradition, but they have only won (the World Cup) in 1966 in its history, which is little compared to what English football has achieved at club level, given the teams in the Premier League and the teams that have won the Champions League and Europa League.

“English football has always been important, but at the national level they have unfortunately only won once. Now with the key factor of playing at home in this final they have the opportunity to win an important trophy after many years.”

Further reading