Chelsea midfielder Jorginho ensured Italy matched a long-standing international record last night.
Although the European Championships could only manage a 1-1 draw with Bulgaria, they set the joint longest unbeaten streak in men’s football for a national team.
Not since 2018 have the Azzurri tasted failure of any kind, a streak that covers 35 matches and one tournament.
They are now level with the iconic Brazilian side of the 1990s and the Spanish conquerors of the 2000s.
Roberto Mancini’s men will have preferred to pull up alongside the legendary squads of the past on the back of a win.
Italy are still four points in front at the summit of Group C.
However, they have played two more games than second-placed Switzerland, who they face this Sunday.
This clash could well decide who tops the group and therefore gets a more favourable draw for next year’s World Cup in Qatar.
Jorgi joy
But for now, the Italians can rejoice in their wonderful achievements.
Particularly Jorginho, who has been involved throughout the unblemished run.
Chelsea’s maestro also played a pivotal part in his country’s success over the summer.
Jorginho was arguably Mancini’s most consistent performer at the Euros, dictating proceedings from midfield with typical precision and poise.
He coolly slotted away the winning penalty against Spain in the semi-finals but missed the subsequent spot-kick in the victory over England.
Emerson Palmieri featured as well in Thursday’s significant result.
Currently on loan at Lyon, the Chelsea left-back was involved during Italy’s continental dominance earlier this year.
Although not initially at the forefront of Mancini’s plans, the 27-year-old covered his duties efficiently and earned his winner’s medal.
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