The pressure from Italy was relentless, their determination palpable with every pass and surge forward. Riccardo Montolivo, the Italian forward, was proving to be a menace on the left flank, weaving through defenders and creating openings with his quick footwork. England's defense, previously unyielding, was starting to show signs of strain under the Italian assault.
Elian tracked back deeper than usual, joining the midfield battle to relieve some of the pressure. The Game Reading ability kicked in, offering him a clearer picture of Italy's movements. The relentless energy of Andrea Ferrari in midfield and the sharp passing of Lorenzo De Luca made Italy's attacks more coordinated. They were playing a high press, cutting off passing lanes and forcing England into hurried decisions.