Lippi accepts blame for Italy exit

Italy’s miserable campaign ended as Slovakia beat them 3-2 in a thrilling conclusion to Group F.

“I take all responsibility, all responsibility for what happened,” said the 62-year-old

“If a team turns up at such an important game like tonight with terror in their heart and their legs, and is unable to express its ability, it’s because the coach didn’t train the team as he should.

“I don’t regret coming back. It was an experience I wanted to replicate. I was convinced I could do things differently and I’m sorry.”