Italy’s dream ended in the group stage after a very positive build-up to the 2014 FIFA World Cup when Cesare Prandelli’s side won six and drew four head of the tournament.

After beating the Czech Republic 2-1 thanks to Chiellini and Balotelli goals, Italy qualified for the finals with two matches to spare for the first time.

A tough draw pitted the Azzurri against England, Costa Rica and Uruguay. Italy kicked off with a 2-1 win over England. Marchisio opened the scoring on Manaus, Sturridge equalised before Balotelli scored the winner from a Candreva assist.

In the second match, things became harder in Recife following a disappointing 1-0 defeat to Costa Rica where Ruiz’s goal late in the first half proved decisive. 

Against Uruguay, Italy had to avoid defeat to secure a place in the knockout stages. However, the Azzurri lost 1-0 again in Nazal after Marchisio was sent off and Suarez wasn’t. Italy struggled at playing a man down and Godin scored the only goal ten minutes from time.

In the second consecutive tournament, Italy went out at the group stage and Cesare Prandelli and FIGC President Giancarlo Abete resigned soon after.