Home / Sports / Capello: Italy's scoring woes stem from build-up play
Capello: Italy's scoring woes stem from build-up play
26 Sep
Summary
- Fabio Capello criticizes Italy's build-up tactics for lack of scoring opportunities.
- Young players like Zoma and Maldini showed positive attitudes despite the loss.
- Italy's performance lacked willingness and spirit to win back possession.
Fabio Capello has expressed concerns over Italy's attacking strategy following their 2-0 home loss to Belgium on September 25, 2026. He observed that the team approached the match with excessive caution, struggling to express themselves, particularly in a disappointing first half where goalkeeper Donnarumma made crucial saves.
Capello specifically criticized the build-up play, stating that Italy's sideways passing and failure to cross into the penalty area made scoring difficult. While acknowledging emerging talents like Mohamed Ali Zoma and Daniel Maldini showed positive intent and dribbling ability, Capello emphasized a broader issue of lacking the willingness and spirit to win back possession with determination.
The defeat, which occurred at the Stadio Olimpico, was met with boos from the home crowd, understandable given Italy's recent failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. Capello also noted a difference in De Ketelaere's attitude for Belgium compared to his club performances, highlighting the national team's required intensity.
