Giovanni Di Lorenzo expressed his bewilderment at Italy’s performance in their 3-3 draw against Germany in the Nations League quarter-final. The Azzurri captain lamented the team’s poor start and late comeback attempt.

Italy found themselves trailing 3-0 at halftime after conceding what Di Lorenzo described as “unacceptable goals at this level.” The team’s resurgence came in the second half, with Moise Kean scoring twice and Giacomo Raspadori converting a penalty in stoppage time. However, the late push was insufficient to overcome the aggregate score of 5-4 in Germany’s favor.

Di Lorenzo emphasized the need for a thorough analysis of the team’s first-half performance, stating, “We were practically non-existent on the field in the first half. Our reaction came too late – we can’t only respond when there’s nothing left to lose.”

The Napoli defender also questioned a controversial VAR decision that overturned a penalty awarded to Italy when the score was 3-2. “It seemed like a clear penalty to me,” Di Lorenzo said, expressing confusion over the reversal.

Looking ahead, Di Lorenzo acknowledged the importance of upcoming matches in June, asserting that “if the team maintains the right attitude, we can compete with anyone.” He concluded by expressing disappointment in the manner of their elimination from the tournament.

The Nations League exit means Italy will now focus on 2026 World Cup qualifying, where they are grouped with Norway, Israel, Estonia, and Moldova in Group I.