Gigi Di Biagio hailed a “very important” victory over the Republic of Ireland, the third in a row for the Italy Under-21 side.
The Azzurrini maintained their 100 per cent record in qualifying for the European Under-21 Championships with a 1-0 win over Ireland in Vicenza.
“It’s an important result, in fact a very important result,” Coach Di Biagio told Rai Sport.
Gigi Di Biagio hailed a “very important” victory over the Republic of Ireland, the third in a row for the Italy Under-21 side.
The Azzurrini maintained their 100 per cent record in qualifying for the European Under-21 Championships with a 1-0 win over Ireland in Vicenza.
“It’s an important result, in fact a very important result,” Coach Di Biagio told Rai Sport.
“I liked the performance a little less, but we showed great character and pride. The lads sacrificed themselves and at times that is not enough. Today it was, so I compliment the players.
“We were under a lot of pressure and didn’t play the way we usually do, but are satisfied because I got some important responses, especially down to 10 men.
“I expected a game like this, a real battle, which isn’t new against a side like Ireland. It was difficult, but the result is positive.”
Italy have not only won all three qualifiers, but scored five goals without conceding.
“It’s pointless naming names, but when you have figures like this in defence, it all becomes easier.”
Di Biagio was referring above all to centre-backs Daniele Rugani and Alessio Romagnoli.