Friday 28 June 2013 11:34, UK
Italy players and staff past and present dedicated their battling performance in last night's defeat to Spain to former Azzurri striker Stefano Borgonovo, who died on Thursday.
Sacchi guided the Rossoneri to one Serie A title and two European Cups with Borgonovo in his squad and today he spoke fondly of his late charge. He said: "He fought with an incredible strength and an extraordinary dignity against a disease as ugly as [MND]. He is a hero. "He was incredibly unlucky but showed the desire to live and to stay with his family. "He was fundamental to our European Cup win in 1990, too, scoring a decisive goal in the semi-final against Bayern. I will always remember his footballing qualities and his desire to live and fight." Current Rossoneri striker Mario Balotelli had the last word on his official Twitter account, writing: "Your show of strength was a life lesson for all. "Goodbye Stefano, you will always be with me. And with us!"
