Injured Italy captain Giorgio Chiellini targets return for Euro last 16

The 36-year-old limped off in the first half of Wednesday's 3-0 win over Switzerland in Rome that put the Azzurri through to the next round with a game to spare.

Published: 18th June 2021 01:33 PM  |   Last Updated: 18th June 2021 01:33 PM   |  A+A A-

Italy's Giorgio Chiellini, center, celebrates after scoring a VAR delete goal during the Euro 2020 soccer championship group A match between Italy and Switzerland. (Photo | AP)

By AFP

ROME: Italy captain Giorgio Chiellini looks set to miss Sunday's final Euro 2020 Group A game against Wales with a muscle injury but could be fit for the last 16, sources in the Italian team said Thursday.

The 36-year-old limped off in the first half of Wednesday's 3-0 win over Switzerland in Rome that put the Azzurri through to the next round with a game to spare.

Chiellini pulled a flexor muscle in his left leg but tests carried out on Thursday did not reveal too serious an injury, the sources said.

If the 109-times capped Juventus defender cannot play against Wales on Sunday, "the goal remains for him to recover for the next matches", and in particular for the last 16, a source said.

Roberto Mancini's side are top of Group A after beating Turkey and Switzerland.

Italy will advance as group winners if they avoid defeat against surprise Euro 2016 semi-finalists Wales at the Stadio Olimpico on Sunday.

They will play the last 16 on June 26 in London or Amsterdam depending on whether they finish first or second in the group.

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