Monday 13 June 2016 23:43, UK
Italy's Antonio Conte says the 'open wound' of their 2014 World Cup failure should inspire the Azzurri to success at Euro 2016 after their impressive 2-0 win over Belgium.
Goals in either half from Emanuele Giaccherini and Graziano Pelle saw Italy beat Belgium in Lyon as Conte's side threw down a marker in their bid to win a first European Championships title since 1968.
But Conte said the Azzurri's failure at the 2014 World Cup, where an opening win over England, then defeats to Uruguay and Costa Rica sent them home after the group stages, must inspire Italy at Euro 2016.
"We still have an open wound from the World Cup when even a good performance against England meant nothing as we still went out," said Conte.
"That open wound from two years ago needs to burn in the players.
"They have realised that to make waves here they need to do something extraordinary, nothing ordinary."
Italy's head coach, who will leave to take over Chelsea after the finals, said their opening Group E win alone is not enough to make them favourites for the title in France.
But he hopes the victory will boost confidence for the coming Group E games against Sweden and the Republic of Ireland.
"I don't think a single game can change people's assessments," Conte added.
"We are all pulling in the right direction, we want to make the last 16 and to get as far as we deserve to go with no recriminations.
"We will have tough times, but I believe that when supporters see 23 players give their all - blood, sweat and tears - they really appreciate what talent they have.
"We want to leave this tournament having given 100 percent and with no 'ifs', no 'buts' and no regrets."
