Claudio Marchisio “had hallucinations” due to the heat in Manaus, but still scored in Italy’s 2-1 win over England.
“It was important to get the victory, especially on a day when playing football in this humidity was frankly difficult,” the Juventus midfielder told Sky Sport Italia.
“In certain moments I felt like I had hallucinations due to the heat. However, this team showed it has great character, as we resisted in the final minutes and brought home and deserved win against a good England side.”
Marchisio ran to embrace Gigi Buffon after scoring the goal, as the captain had been ruled out by a sprained ankle.
“I was sad for him, but as a great captain he celebrated along with us. I also have to say Salvatore Sirigu had a wonderful performance in goal.”
Italy are now joint top of Group D with Costa Rica, while England and Uruguay face off in the next game.
“Can we get to the Final? I don’t know, it’s a long road. The important thing was to start well. Now we have to focus on Costa Rica, who already surprised Uruguay.”
. Much patience. Such skill. Wow.
