How Bonucci Stopped Harry Kane: Defensive Secrets Revealed

Italian defender Leonardo Bonucci has provided detailed insights into the defensive strategy used against England captain Harry Kane during the Euro 2020 final. His comments explain the tactical approach employed by the Italian national team in their match at Wembley Stadium.

Main News

Leonardo Bonucci, a key player for Italy’s national team, described the specific plan to neutralize the threat of striker Harry Kane. He stated that the strategy was devised by the team’s coaching staff, led by manager Roberto Mancini.

The plan involved preventing Kane from receiving the ball by cutting off his supply lines. Bonucci explained that the Italian midfield was instructed to apply intense pressure on the English players who were tasked with passing to Kane.

Bonucci also detailed the defensive approach once Kane had possession. He mentioned that the central defenders, including himself and Giorgio Chiellini, used targeted physical contact to disrupt Kane’s rhythm and ability to link play. The objective was to ensure Kane was constantly engaged in a physical duel, limiting his effectiveness.

Summary

Italian defender Leonardo Bonucci has revealed the tactical plan used against England’s Harry Kane in the Euro 2020 final. The strategy was focused on limiting the striker’s influence on the game.

The approach had two main components. The first was for the Italian midfield to pressure the passers, stopping the ball from reaching Kane. The second involved the central defenders using physicality to disrupt him whenever he did get the ball.

Bonucci credited the team’s coaching staff for developing this specific game plan. The tactics were successfully executed by the entire Italian team during the match.

FAQs

What was Italy’s main tactic against Harry Kane?
The primary tactic was to prevent Kane from receiving passes by pressuring the English midfield. If he did get the ball, defenders used physical contact to disrupt his control and passing.

Who created this defensive plan?
According to Bonucci, the defensive strategy was created by the Italian team’s coaching staff. The manager at the time was Roberto Mancini.

Did the strategy work?
The Italian team won the Euro 2020 final, defeating England in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw. Harry Kane was largely contained during the open play of the match.