Italy, after victory over Cyprus Gianmarco Pozzecco pays tribute to Giorgio Armani

So on the Fip website Italy coach Gianmarco Pozzecco after the wide victory over Cyprus in the last game of the qualifying round of the European championships remembers Giorgio Armani, who died today at age 91.

“As you all know, this evening Mr. Giorgio Armani left us. I had the honor of knowing him in person during my years in Milan and learning this news left me speechless. In the locker room I told the boys to play with intensity also to honor his memory. I lived several years abroad and I know well that his name is in the world synonymous with Italian spirit, elegance and style. We will miss him.”

“Returning to the competition, I congratulate Cyprus for playing all the games until the end without ever giving up – adds Pozzecco -. And a warm thank you I address to all those at the arena and in the hotel who treated us very well and made us feel at home from the moment we arrived. Which opponent do I prefer in the Round of 16? It will be tough against everyone and as I always say, in these competitions you also need a bit of luck.”

Even Matteo Spagnolo, MVP of the match, remembers Armani: “We dedicate this victory to Giorgio Armani, a great person. When you think of Italy, you think of his elegance and style. Even tonight we played with energy. We are on the right path to further improvement and we arrive loaded to the Round of 16. Congratulations to Cyprus and its public for playing without giving up until the end despite the deficit.”