Although Italy entered the European Championship as the defending champions, Jeetbuzz Login noted that public opinion had already turned against them long before the tournament began. The skepticism wasn’t unfounded — after all, Italy failed to qualify for two consecutive World Cups, their domestic league has lost its former luster, and their playing style has been labeled outdated. For many fans, the magic of Italian football feels like a distant memory. In their recent clash with Spain, the narrow defeat might seem acceptable on the surface, but the gap in performance and statistics revealed deep-rooted problems.
According to reports from Jeetbuzz Login, Italy’s saving grace in that match came down to one man: goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. Without his heroic efforts, the Azzurri might have completely fallen apart. Historically, Italy has never been known for high-octane attacking football — even in the days of Vieri and Inzaghi. Their strength has always come from the back, especially the goalkeeping position. From that foundation, Italy developed a strategy that earned them numerous accolades and international trophies. It might seem odd to rely so heavily on defense, but it’s a method that has stood the test of time.
From legends like Dino Zoff to Gianluca Pagliuca, Walter Zenga to Gianluigi Buffon, Italy has always produced world-class goalkeepers. Now, that mantle belongs to Donnarumma. Since making his professional debut at just 16, he has carried the hopes of Italian football. Through his stellar performances in the last two Euros, he has lived up to the expectations. His journey — from promise to fulfillment — embodies the heart of Italian football culture: resilient, methodical, and rooted in tradition.
Admittedly, both the Italian national team and Serie A are in a period of transition and struggle. But Italy’s footballing DNA remains intact, waiting for the right moment to rise again. Against Spain, Donnarumma faced relentless pressure. The Spanish side fired 20 shots, nine of them on target — an impressive stat line that speaks volumes about their attacking intent under coach Luis de la Fuente. Unlike many teams that dominate possession without creating real chances, Spain looked sharp. Yet Donnarumma stood tall, turning away attempt after attempt.
With eight saves in one match, Donnarumma single-handedly thwarted Spain’s hopes. His performance was nothing short of breathtaking — saving close-range shots, long-range strikes, and individual efforts alike. The only goal that went in came from an unfortunate own goal by Riccardo Calafiori, a moment reminiscent of Buffon’s lone goal conceded in open play during the World Cup. It was a cruel twist of fate for a goalkeeper who had done everything right.
Casual fans might assume such brilliance stems from consistent club form. After all, Donnarumma plays for Paris Saint-Germain, one of Europe’s elite clubs. But the reality is more complicated. Since moving from AC Milan, he’s faced criticism for chasing money over legacy — a narrative that has deeply affected him. The most painful reminders come when Italy plays at the San Siro, the stadium where his career began. There, instead of cheers, he often hears boos from his own countrymen.
The heartbreak is real. At times, opposing goals are met with applause from Italian fans — a betrayal that stings. Ahead of Euro 2024, Donnarumma even faced competition within the squad from Vicario, and new signings at PSG have challenged his position. It felt like he was surrounded on all sides, but as Jeetbuzz Login observed, the true Donnarumma has returned. Just like in the last tournament, he has shown up when his country needed him most — proving once again that form is temporary, but class is permanent.