Udinese striker Kevin Lasagna “almost didn’t believe it” when making his Italy debut against Poland, but reveals his parents missed it.
He was a late addition to the Nations League squad against Poland and chosen to come off the bench rather than Ciro Immobile.
It proved a decisive debut, as his flick on from a corner allowed Cristiano Biraghi to score the last-gasp winner.
“I felt indescribable emotion when the Coach called me over to come on. I was already enthusiastic just about being in the squad,” he told Udinese TV.
Udinese striker Kevin Lasagna “almost didn’t believe it” when making his Italy debut against Poland, but reveals his parents missed it.
He was a late addition to the Nations League squad against Poland and chosen to come off the bench rather than Ciro Immobile.
It proved a decisive debut, as his flick on from a corner allowed Cristiano Biraghi to score the last-gasp winner.
“I felt indescribable emotion when the Coach called me over to come on. I was already enthusiastic just about being in the squad,” he told Udinese TV.
“Playing for your country is a dream for every child and I am proud to have achieved it. When Mancini told me to go on, I almost didn’t believe him.
“We had tried a few situations in training, but to be honest, I didn’t expect to be on the pitch. The Nazionale can count on so many quality strikers.
“The game against Portugal will be fundamental and I’ll do everything I can to be there, although I can only earn that opportunity via my performances for Udinese.”
Lasagna’s family had tried to fly out to Poland to watch the game, but their flight was delayed and they missed a connection.
“We talked about 30 minutes after the final whistle, as while I was playing, they were on their way back to Italy. Unfortunately, they weren’t even able to watch my debut on streaming, but when turning their phones back on after landing, the messages of congratulations made them realise what had happened.
“Hopefully I can take part in the game against Portugal, as that’ll be in Milan and my parents can see me. Only a few months ago, the idea of the Nazionale seemed a dream beyond reach.”