Mancini says Biscotti are off the menu
Roberto Mancini has dismissed the idea that Italy and Wales could play out a so-called “Biscotto” draw in Rome to suit their Euro 2020 ambitions.
Italy have already qualified for the round of 16 after winning their opening two games and would top Group A by avoiding defeat to Wales at the Stadio Olimpico today.
Second-placed Wales need a point to confirm qualification for the knockout stage after drawing with Switzerland and beating Turkey.
It has been suggested the scenario allows the two teams to engineer the right result. In Italy this is known as “Biscotto”, which literally means “biscuit”.
Mancini said: “That’s not an issue for us because we already have six points and are already through to the last 16.
“We either go to London or Amsterdam. It depends on the final score, and this ‘Biscotto’ chat doesn’t pertain to us.
“We will go wherever we need to in the draw. We’re not really bothered by which team we come against.”
Italy have gone 29 games unbeaten – one short of the Azzurri all-time record – and are expected to progress to a Wembley date with the runners-up in Group C, most likely Austria or Ukraine.
But Mancini is wary of the challenge Wales will present his side.
He said: “Wales are a very difficult side to face. They have been right up there in the FIFA world rankings for a number of years. That shows they have quality.
“They have also made it to the last four of the previous European Championship, so we have to play very well.
“Wales have players like Joe Allen, Gareth Bale, Daniel James – and it will be a difficult match from a physical and technical perspective.”
Mancini has promised changes to his starting line-up after impressive 3-0 wins over Turkey and Switzerland.
Captain Giorgio Chiellini misses out with a flexor problem and Paris St-germain midfielder Marco Verratti is set to make his tournament bow after injury.
Asked if Italy have played the best football at Euro 2020, Mancini quipped: “I don’t know if we necessarily play the best football. But we’re a group of goodlooking lads, for sure.”
Meanwhile, Barcelona have said Holland forward Memphis Depay will join the club on a free transfer after his contract expires with Lyon at the end of the month. Depay, 27, has agreed a twoyear deal .