Antonio Conte said Italy’s draw with Croatia was good in the circumstances and praised the “new faces.”
Antonio Candreva’s opener was wiped out within minutes by Ivan Perisic, keeping both teams joint top of the group on 10 points.
Antonio Conte said Italy’s draw with Croatia was good in the circumstances and praised the “new faces.”
Antonio Candreva’s opener was wiped out within minutes by Ivan Perisic, keeping both teams joint top of the group on 10 points.
Norway won 1-0 in Azerbaijan this evening and closed up on nine points, but Bulgaria were held to a 1-1 draw by Malta.
“It’s a step forward. It wasn’t easy and the Pasqual injury didn’t help, so we gave Soriano his debut,” Conte told Rai Sport after the 1-1 draw.
“Let’s say this game against a team that is in better shape, has been together for a long time, with more experience and great quality, was tough.
“This team has the desire to improve and fight for every ball. We can improve, of course, but the hunger is there. I also thank the fans for coming to San Siro in such numbers.”
Conte even moved to a four-man defence in the second half, abandoning his usual 3-5-2.
“Due to the injuries we had to make do, so switched to four at the back. It’s inevitable in the second half we lost our usual reference points and moves, but the lads wanted to bring home a positive result.”
Substitutes Soriano, Graziano Pellè and Stephan El Shaarawy were perhaps the most impressive tonight.
“It’s important, as we need everyone, from El Sharaawy to Pellè, Soriano and Bertolacci. We need these new faces who can bring fresh enthusiasm and desire to the squad.”