2012 Italy Training Jacket

The UEFA Euro 2012 tournament marked one of the most remarkable and emotionally resonant campaigns in Italy’s international history. Entering the competition amid turmoil from the domestic Calciopoli match-fixing investigations and widespread skepticism, Italy were written off by much of Europe. Under the calm, methodical leadership of Cesare Prandelli, however, the Azzurri reinvented themselves — tactically, culturally, and stylistically.

Drawn into Group C alongside Spain, Croatia, and Republic of Ireland, Italy began with a strong 1–1 draw against Spain, immediately signaling their intent. They followed with another 1–1 draw vs Croatia before securing qualification with a 2–0 win over Ireland, thanks to goals from Antonio Cassano and Mario Balotelli. Italy advanced as group runners-up.

In the knockout stages, Italy’s tactical intelligence truly shone. They defeated England in the quarter-finals via penalties after a dominant 0–0 draw, remembered for Italy’s control and Andrea Pirlo’s iconic Panenka penalty. The semi-final against Germany became legendary: a 2–1 victory powered by a Balotelli brace, exorcising decades of tournament frustration against their rivals.

Italy’s fairytale run ended in the final, where they were defeated 4–0 by Spain — the heaviest loss in European Championship final history. Fatigue, injuries, and Spain’s historic dominance proved decisive. Despite the result, Italy’s journey was universally praised as a triumph of identity, unity, and football intelligence.

The 2012 Italy home kit, manufactured by Puma, became instantly iconic. Featuring a classic azzurro blue base, gold Puma logos, and gold trim accents, the shirt symbolized heritage and renaissance. The tailored cut, elegant simplicity, and absence of excessive detailing reflected Italy’s refined footballing philosophy — understated, disciplined, and timeless.

2. Full Squad List (Italy – Euro 2012, Poland & Ukraine)

Manager: Cesare Prandelli

Goalkeepers:
Gianluigi Buffon (captain), Morgan De Sanctis, Salvatore Sirigu

Defenders:
Giorgio Chiellini, Leonardo Bonucci, Andrea Barzagli, Ignazio Abate, Federico Balzaretti, Christian Maggio, Domenico Criscito

Midfielders:
Andrea Pirlo, Daniele De Rossi, Claudio Marchisio, Riccardo Montolivo, Thiago Motta, Antonio Nocerino, Emanuele Giaccherini

Forwards:
Mario Balotelli, Antonio Cassano, Sebastian Giovinco, Alessandro Diamanti, Fabio Borini