The Italy Under-21 squad also disappointed today, suffering a 1-1 draw with Montenegro in an Under-21 European Championship qualifier.
The Azzurrini currently sit second in Group F on 14 points, behind Sweden on goal difference but holding a game in hand. It was a frustrating U-21 Euro 2023 qualifier as Italy held the majority of possession but failed to translate that into clear-cut chances, something Roberto Mancini’s senior team suffered in their 1-0 loss to North Macedonia yesterday.
Marko Rakonjac opened the scoring for Montenegro after 37 minutes but Italy were quick to respond, with Samuele Ricci netting an equaliser only two minutes later. Despite the Azzurini’s best attempts, they couldn’t find a second and things ended all square at the Podgorica City Stadium.
Italy held 60.8% of the ball in the match, completing 75.9% of their passes and creating one clear cut chance. Only one of their shots was on target though, compared to Montenegro’s three.