Slovakia vs. Italy (24.06.2010)

In an electrifying match on June 24, 2010, Slovakia secured a historic victory against the defending champions Italy, leaving fans and spectators in awe. The match was a thrilling display of determination and skill, particularly from the Slovakian side.

The game's first major moment came at the 25-minute mark when Róbert Vittek struck a fine goal for Slovakia, setting the tone for what was to become a stunning upset. His goal instilled confidence in the Slovakian team and they took control of the game with assurance and tactical discipline.

Italy, a team recognized for their defensive strength and strategic prowess, found themselves in an unfamiliar position, chasing the game. As a result, the Italian coach made critical changes early in the second half, bringing on Domenico Criscito and Gennaro Gattuso at the 46-minute mark, hoping to inject some much-needed energy and experience onto the pitch. Riccardo Montolivo was also introduced in the 56th minute as Italy's third and final substitution in an effort to turn the tides in their favor.

However, Slovakia remained resilient and Vittek doubled his tally with another goal in the 73rd minute, which further solidified Slovakia's grip on the game. The Italians managed to fight back with Antonio Di Natale scoring in the 81st minute, providing a glimmer of hope for an Italian comeback.

As the match approached its conclusion, Italy pressed higher in desperate search for an equalizer. However, Slovakia struck again with Kamil Kopúnek scoring a goal in the 89th minute, effectively sealing the victory for Slovakia.

Late in the game, Slovakia made strategic substitutions to maintain their lead. Zdeno Štrba came on in the 87th minute, followed by Erik Jendrišek and the goal hero Vittek himself in injury time to help slow down the match and disrupt Italy's rhythm.

Despite a beautiful goal by Fabio Quagliarella for Italy in the 90th minute, it was too little, too late. The full-time whistle confirmed Slovakia's astonishing triumph, finishing the match with a scoreline that few could have predicted. This game will be remembered as one of the most significant upsets in World Cup history and a proud moment for Slovakian football.

Lineup Slovakia

Lineup Italy

Substitutes Slovakia

Substitutes Italy

Slovakia

Slovak national football team plays its matches in blue or white jerseys. The team's greatest achievements can be considered to be qualifying for the two most important football events. They played the World Cup in South Africa in 2010, and they tried the EURO for the first time in 2016 in France. At both of these tournaments, they played the eighth-finals identically, losing to the Netherlands at the WC and being knocked out by Germany at the EURO.

Italy

Italian national football team is one of the most successful national teams in the world. Historically, they have done best in the most prestigious tournament. They have won the World Cup a total of four times so far in 1934, 1938, 1982 and 2006. They have also added silver medals in 1970 and 1994, and bronze in 1990 at their home championship.

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