Italy have moved into the knockout phase of Euro 2020 with a perfect record after a 1-0 victory over Wales in Rome on Sunday.
Matteo Pessina flicked on the game’s only goal from Marco Verratti’s set-piece to clinch a perfect group phase for the Azzurri, who scored seven goals and did not concede once.
Wales also progress on goal difference in second spot ahead of Switzerland who won 3-1 over Turkey.
But Italy’s impressive group phase has them firming for contention for the European title, although that will change as the quality of opposition ramps up in the knockout.
“We are happy but we know that after the group stage we start a new European Championship but now it will be different,” Italy boss Roberto Mancini said.
“The guys are very clever. They wanted to win every game, they have a good mentality. I am very happy also for this reason because we changed eight players and played a very good game.
“It is always difficult, I think we played against a good team. Wales are a good team, but it was a deserved win.”
Switzerland will need to wait on other results to confirm their qualification for the last 16, with Xherdan Shaqiri’s double helping them past Turkey, who finished without a point.
“Over the next few days I can’t do anything. We have to wait,” Switzerland coach Vladimir Petkovic said. “I’m optimistic we will reach the next round.”
Four of the six sides who finish third in their group will qualify for the last 16, based on ranking from points, goal difference and goals scored.
