Marrone uses Azzurrini memories

Luca Marrone has experienced the pain of Italy’s European Under-21 Championship play-off exit to keep them focused on Tuesday’s clash with Sweden.

The Azzurrini suffered a shock elimination against Belarus two years ago, but are back in contention after a 1-0 first leg lead over Sweden.

“We weren't clinical in front of goal, but we created a lot of opportunities and that is the most important thing,” Juventus midfielder Marrone told UEFA.com.

“In the second half, maybe we were a little tired. In the second leg they will be very aggressive. They will go on the attack and we hope to use the space they leave.

“I was in the squad when we were eliminated by Belarus in 2010 after winning 2-0 in the first leg at home. It's a bad memory. It was a lesson and made us understand that no game should be taken for granted.”