Federico Chiesa explains why he couldn't listen to Italy boss Luciano Spalletti during Euro 2024 victory over Albania

The Azzurri came from behind to beat Albania 2-1 in their opening game of Euro 2024 on Saturday. Italy were stunned when Nedim Bajrami put Albania ahead in the first minute, scoring the fastest ever goal in European Championship history, but the defending champions hit back with goals from Alesssandro Bastoni and Nicolo Barella to secure the win.

The game was played at a very noisy Signal Iduna Park which saw Albania fans outnumber their hosts and provide a vibrant atmosphere. Chiesea admitted that the noise at the stadium made it difficult for Italy fans to hear what their coach was trying to tell them during the match.

He told reporters: "He wants to see consistency in terms of play and movement. He wants to dominate proceedings and that’s what he’s been telling us ever since he came to Coverciano last September. That’s what we tried to show on the pitch. He gave us this advice, but hearing him on the other side of the pitch was quite hard. There was a wonderful atmosphere, it was fabulous. Even if the Italians were outnumbered it was a magnificent experience."

Italy have made a strong start to the defence of their title but now face crunch games against Spain and Croatia in Group B. La Roja are up next and head into the match after an impressive 3-0 win over Croatia which should make for a fascinating game between the two sides at the Veltins-Arena on Thursday.