Bonucci: We played better than England
Italy defender Leonardo Bonucci believes that the Azzurri have played better so far in Euro 2012 in comparison to the England side.
By ESPNSTAR.com staff
England struggled to achieve wins over Ukraine and Sweden and surrendered their lead over France within nine minutes after Joleon Lescott opened the scoring for the Three Lions.
The Italians, in contrast, were impressive against Spain and registered a comfortable victory over Republic of Ireland in their final group game.
The Juventus defender strongly believes that so far, Cesare Prandelli's side have proven themselves in every department and called on his side to head into Sunday's match with confidence.
"In terms of performance, we've probably been better than England so far in this tournament," he said.
"But the thing is, if you want to achieve a good result, you must be clinical in front of goal.
"You have to play your own game and be convincing in everything you do."
Bonucci also believes that the England players have benefitted from their tutelage under former manager Fabio Capello as they have become more effective in both the defensive and counter-attacking aspects to the game.
"England have become more like an Italian team thanks to Capello and other Italian managers in the Premier League," he agreed.
"England are defending better, can play on counter-attacks."
"They improved a lot over the last two years."
Roy Hodgson's side will meet the Italians in the final quarter-final of the tournament on Sunday with the winner facing either Germany or Greece in the semi-final.