Italy coach Antonio Conte praised Norway as well as his Azzurri side following their 2-1 win on Tuesday night in Euro 2016 Group H’s final game.
Italy came from behind thanks to goals from Alessandro Florenzi and Graziano Pelle, and as such made it 50 qualification games in a row without defeat.
“You have to give kudos to our opponents today,” Conte told Rai Sport.
“They are a strong team and I feel sorry for them, but that’s football,” he added.
Italy’s victory meant they topped the group while it also guaranteed that Norway finished third in the group, and must go through a playoff if they are to reach Euro 2016.
“We did what we needed to do,” the former Juventus boss stated.
“I’m glad that we fought back and I’m also pleased with how the team played.
“I always want this sort of intensity in every match.”
Conte elected to alter his 4-2-4 from the 3-1 win over Azerbaijan.
“I did change the style, but I only implemented three in midfield.”
“The team need to be ready to alter the tactics without hassle in the future when needed.”
Despite the win, the Azzurri will remain unseeded in France next summer.
“To be perfectly honest I have no idea why we are not seeded.”
“We finished the Group stage with 24, it’s difficult to understand.”
