CHRIS SUTTON: Chiellini's clash with Kane could decide the final

CHRIS SUTTON: The goalscorer versus the goal-stopper… Giorgio Chiellini will do everything he can to stop Harry Kane in what could be his final Italy game – it’s a clash with could decide the outcome of the Euro 2020 final

  • Giorgio Chiellini vs Harry Kane will likely be one of Sunday’s defining battles
  • The Italian defender will be desperate to produce another battling display
  • Mason Mount will have to get the better of Jorginho in the centre of midfield
  • Should he start, Bukayo Saka will back himself to cause Emerson problems 
  • Find out the latest Euro 2020 news including fixtures, live action and results here

Italy’s wily defence has played a major role in getting them to the Euro 2020 final. Giorgio Chiellini and Leonardo Bonucci, with their combined age of 70, have proved too strong for the attacking players they have faced so far.

But Raheem Sterling and Harry Kane go into Sunday’s match full of confidence, and it’s a battle that is crucial to the chances of both sides. 

Sportsmail’s Chris Sutton takes a look at the three key clashes that could go a long way to deciding the outcome of the final.

Harry Kane vs Giorgio Chiellini

The goalscorer versus the goal-stopper. Chiellini is all smiles until that whistle is blown, then you’re his mortal enemy. 

The 36-year-old plays every game like it’s his last and who knows, this might be Chiellini’s final Italy cap, certainly at a major tournament. 

If so, he will want to bow out with a clean sheet. Kane will have something to say about that, however.

Giorgio Chiellini plays every game like it’s his last and this may well be his final cap for Italy

Harry Kane will be looking to deny the veteran defender from lifting that trophy on Sunday

Mason Mount vs Jorginho 

England need to stop Jorginho, otherwise Italy can take charge of this match. Who better to muzzle this midfield metronome than his Chelsea club-mate Mount? 

He can track him, harry him, knock him off his tempo and thereby stop Italy from dancing to his tune. It’s a vital job. 

If Mount can stop him, then he stands every chance of being named man of the match.

The loss of Leonardo Spinazzola is immense for Italy. Whether it is Bukayo Saka on the right-hand side for England on Sunday or Jadon Sancho or Phil Foden, Emerson needs testing.

The direct Saka would really enjoy getting at him and should the Italy left back ever get forward himself, the Arsenal youngster would track back to help defensively. 

This is one battle which England can win.

Bukayo Saka is strong going forward and tracking back – he will fancy himself against Emerson




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