Italy’s hopes of European Championship qualification remain very much alive after an essential 2-0 victory over Northern Ireland in Lurgan.
The Azzurrini were on top for much of the game, conceding very little by way of chances at the other end but it took a Daniele Rugani header in the second half and then a Marcello Trotta finish in the 89th minute to make sure of the points.
That win moves them just one point behind Serbia and Belgium who sit first and second respectively.
Among the stars for Italy were Federico Viviani and defensive duo Alessio Romagnoli and Rugani while Trotta also impressed from the bench.
Did we get our ratings right? Give your say in the comments below.
Francesco Bardi – 6 – Anonymous
So little did the Livorno loanee have to do during this game that when discussing ratings with an Italian journalist, he was adamant he would give the goalkeeper zero simply because he barely touched the ball throughout.
Stefano Sabelli 6.5 – Brave
On more than one occasion, was unafraid to put his body on the line where it hurts and showed great courage in never shirking tackles. Some perceived play-acting brought him the ire of the home crowd.
Alessio Romagnoli – 7.5 – Unruffled
You got the impression that even if an earthquake had been rumbling around him, the Roma youngster was so focused on doing his job, that little would ruffle his feathers and he clearly has a bright future in the game.
Daniele Rugani – 8.5 – Majestic
Did not put a single foot out of place all afternoon. Imposing and elegant all at the same time and took his goal well with a superb glancing header. Put in a breathtaking last-gasp tackle to deny James Gray in the final minute inside the area.
Nicola Murru – 7 – Intelligent
Already impressive at Cagliari and easy to see why. Never caught out of position and always switched on to danger. Picked up a booking for cynical tug back as the home side broke.
Salvatore Molina – 6 – Quiet
Subbed early in the second half after having little impact on proceedings although this was more to do with finding himself isolated on the right than due to his own faults.
Federico Viviani – 8 – Leader
Viviani, who turns 22 later this month, did everything his coach asked of him at the heart of the action and was quality personified throughout. Faces a struggle at Roma with their star-studded midfield, the current Latina loanee should feature in Serie A sooner rather than later.
Danilo Cataldi – 7.5 – Lively
Much of what Italy did well in this clash came through the current Crotone man and that was no mean feat given the bog-like conditions in the middle of the field. His decision making and shooting prowess does need fine tuned however.
Cristian Battochio – 7 – Atomic
Neat feet and good awareness in possession but his lack of physical strength hindered him at times. Possesses a lovely touch, eerily reminiscent of Sebastian Giovinco in stature and skill.
Gianmario Comi – 6.5 – Eager
Works his socks off and then works some more but not going to be a household name based on this showing especially with the likes of the younger Domenico Berardi ahead of him in the pecking order but his desire commendable.
Federico Bernardeschi – 6.5 – Raw
Another of the large Crotone contingent in the squad, he has impressed with the Fiorentina Primavera in recent seasons. He is a livewire with a good shot and has a bright future ahead despite still looking raw; should have found the net with a great first half chance.
Substitutes
On 55 mins – Marcello Trotta – 7
Superb feet shown at all times on the ball and took his goal superbly well.
On 73 mins – Jacopo Dezi – 6.5
Industrious and set up Trotta’s clincher with a lovely ball to the left.
On 84 mins – Filippo De Col – 6
Coach
Luigi Di Biagio – 8.5
His options were limited due to many key losses, some at extremely late notice, due to injuries and suspensions and as a result did very well to grind this one out in the circumstances.
Used players to his advantage very well and his choice of central defensive (Rugani and Romagnoli) and central midfield (Viviani and Cataldi) partnerships were key.
Introduction of Trotta was inspired.
