USA TODAY International Edition
Italy’s attack faces China’s stingy defense in Cup
MONTPELLIER, France – Led by the vibrant play of forward Barbara Bonansea, Italy has proved to be one of the revelations of the Women’s World Cup in its return to the tournament after a 20-year absence.
Bonansea’s team surpassed expectations by winning its group over Marta’s Brazil and Sam Kerr’s Australia.
Now it will face China on Tuesday in a Round of 16 match that promises to be a classic clash of an up-tempo attack against a stingy, no-frills defense.
Italy was the fourth-highest scoring team in the field of 24 through the group phase with seven goals. China managed one goal through three matches but still went through to the knockout round as one of the top third-place teams.
“We try to harmonize every aspect, whether it is in defense or building our attacks. We try to be creative, and I think that is a unique feature of Italian soccer,” coach Milena Bertolini said through an interpreter Monday.
With her speed and ability to score from distance, Bonansea has led Italy’s three-prong attack from its left flank. The 28-year-old Juventus forward, who can also play in midfield, has scored 21 goals in 62 appearances for Le Azzurre.
Despite struggling on offense, China has deployed a disciplined defense anchored by goalkeeper Peng Shimeng. Peng has impressed at 21 in her first major competition by conceding one goal.
“Over the last three games, China went through a difficult process, from the attacking third I think we could have done a better job,” coach Jia Xiuquan said via an interpreter. “But I believe as we adjust to the games I am confident that the attacking third will be better and then we can improve our balance.”
In Tuesday’s other game, the Netherlands will play Japan in Rennes in a rematch of their Round of 16 meeting four years ago, when the Japanese won 2-1 en route to reaching the final. The Dutch won Group E with three victories while Japan finished Group D in second place.
On Monday, Sweden advanced to the quarterfinals after Stina Blackstenius scored early in the second half to earn a 1-0 victory over Canada. Sweden gets Germany next. Earlier in the day, the USA defeated Spain 2-1.