EURO 2020: Italy kicks off tournament with emphatic win over Turkey

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EURO 2020: Italy kicks off tournament with emphatic win over Turkey

Euro 2020 opened in spectacular fashion as Italy claimed a 3-0 win over Turkey.

Italian opera tenor Andrea Bocelli, against the backdrop of a mesmerising firework display, kicked off the tournament with an incredible performance before the kick-off.

Right from the first whistle it was clear that Italy would dominate possession in the game as Turkey slunk into a solidified low block.

Managed by Senol Gunes, the man who was in charge for their semi final run at the 2002 World Cup, Turkey held onto until the half-time break.

But seven minutes after the interval, an own goal from Merih Demiral opened the floodgates.

The Juventus defender was attempting to cut Domenico Berardi's cross but the ball instead sailed past Ugurcan Cakir.

Playing in front of their own fans in Rome, Italy then put Turkey to the sword as Ciro Immobile doubled the advantage.

With the Azzurri in desperate need for him to fire in this tournament, the Lazio striker showed his predatory instincts by pouncing on a spilled shot from Leonardo Spinazzola.

Napoli talisman Lorenzo Insigne then wrapped up the victory with just ten minutes remaining with a classy finish past the hapless Cakir.

It was a special night for the Euros and Italy in general as the 16,000 inside the ground represented the biggest crowd in the country for a year and a half.

Roberto Mancini's side will next face Switzerland on June 16.

Turkey will need to regather their confidence ahead of the June 16 clash with Wales.