The Italy U21 international side emerged 1-0 victors from a close fought match against North Macedonia in the UEFA Euro U21 qualifiers, with a first-half red card not enough to stop Silvio Baldini’s side from securing an important three points to maintain their 100% start to the campaign.
Speaking to Rai after the game, with quotes via AlfredoPedulla.com, Baldini praised his team’s resilience despite their disadvantage, claiming “These are the kinds of wins that make you grow and boost your self-esteem.”
A goal from Napoli defender Luca Marianucci ten minutes after Brando Moruzzi’s second-yellow was enough to see the Azzurrini through against a lacklustre North Macedonia side who did not manage a single attempt on target in the entire match.
Baldini on the most important thing for Italy U21
Baldini continued by commenting on his side’s growth, “These boys are gradually becoming aware that when we are on the pitch, even with one man less, if you help each other, games can be won. The important thing, when you play,” the coach added, “is knowing that you cannot hold anything back. Your energy shouldn’t be kept for yourself but poured into your own area, the opponent’s area and the middle of the pitch.”
Baldini’s Azzurrini side will welcome Sweden and Armenia to Italy in the next international break in October as they seek to keep up their strong start to the qualifying campaign.
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