On Monday, July 24, 8 a.m. Italian time, it is time for Italy to take the field to take on Argentina during the ninth edition of the Women’s World Cup.

In addition to the challenge against the Albiceleste, the group stage also includes two challenges against Sweden and South Africa to qualify for the next stage.

Valentina Giacinti, 3-time Serie A top scorer and newly crowned Italian champion with Roma has already flown with her team, led by coach Milena Bertolini, to Oceania.

We at Eat Pink know how important it is to consume nutritious foods especially for athletes. For this reason, we chatted with Valentina before departure about the importance of a balanced diet in the life of a professional like her.

Hi Valentina, we know you are leaving for Oceania in a few days. How do you prepare for a sporting event as important as the Women’s World Cup 2023 ?

The World Cup is not only prepared in the month of the retreat, but usually you start much earlier. You work the whole season to prepare and achieve 100% physical and mental performance.

What role does nutrition play in this preparation? Do you follow a particular diet at any time of the year?
Nutrition for an athlete is crucial. I follow a diet according to the time of the season: there are periods where I need carbohydrates more and times where I take more protein. In a normal meal, in general, there is never a lack of both, only the quantities change.

When you are away from home do you miss Italian cuisine or any particular dish?

When I am away, yes. I miss the tradition of Italian cuisine, but fortunately we have our own cook to follow us. This way we are able to shorten the distance and bring the taste of good Italian food with us.

Have you imprinted in your mind any particular dishes tasted around the world?

Every place has its typical dish, cultures and histories come together in every recipe, but if I have to choose Brazilian and Japanese food are my favorites. The former because it is part of a rich and varied cuisine, while of Japanese cuisine I love the balance and delicacy of flavors.

Is there a treat you indulge in at the end of a great race?

Only one certainty: the Japanese restaurant precisely. Sushi, nigiri, uramaki are my comfort food, what I need to recharge my energy.

We are almost at the end of this interview, and as we wish you an unforgettable World Cup, would you like to share with us a particularly fond memory related to your career?

The most exciting memory of my career definitely remains the goal I scored at the 2019 World Cup in France. It was the first half of the round of 16 against China, and it will be difficult for me to forget the feelings I felt at that moment.

Looking forward to reliving the same intense emotions, we at Eat Pink are proud to support Valentina and her team during this great adventure.

For once, Eat Pink will also wear blue to cheer on our girls: go Italy!