San Marino were ultimately unable to improve their overall record of just one point – a goalless draw with Estonia in 2014 which remains Vitaioli’s happiest memory with the team – from the 86 European Championship qualifiers they have contested.
But, while it is certainly not all about results for San Marino’s players, there is a sense a second victory may be getting closer.
“I have felt something change in our minds,” says Berardi. “Our self-esteem has improved and I feel we are so close to getting a positive result again, whether that is a draw or eventually a win.
“It would be the ultimate dream to be part of the next San Marino team to celebrate a victory. Probably it would represent the best satisfaction that I have ever felt – and not only for me but the coach, my team-mates and the people in San Marino.”
That sense of momentum is something manager Roberto Cevoli, appointed in January, hopes to build on as San Marino aim to change the narrative.
Proud to lead his home country, Cevoli says he is driven to give something back to football in San Marino after beginning his playing and managerial careers there.
There would be no better way than to end that 20-year wait.
“I want to dream with no limits,” says Cevoli.
“I am fully aware of the troubles the national team has to overcome differently from other national teams, but I hope to continue the progress the team has shown.
“If we can start with a win that would be a great achievement. It would be great for the self-esteem of the players, the staff and the football environment in San Marino.
“It won’t be easy. We are fully aware we will go through a thousand troubles in the game. But the players are doing the right things, training in a great manner and we hope we can get a victory – why not?”
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Publish date : 2024-03-16 09:14:00
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