Italy Under-21 coach Paolo Nicolato saw real ‘progress’ after the 1-0 win over Montenegro, as this new era is beginning to look like a team.
Lorenzo Colombo got the only goal of the game in Vicenza, following the 3-0 victory against Luxembourg.
“It was a delicate run of games, as the first are always difficult, as seen today by Luxembourg drawing with Ireland,” Nicolato told RAI Sport.
“We made a few steps forward, more intensity and didn’t suffer as much. We are lacking experience, but that’s natural. We brought two players off the bench who basically arrived yesterday at the training ground, so I am happy with this.
“The main thing we need to do in this new era is start laying the foundations for a real team and we saw progress today.”
Italy have a 100 per cent record after two games in this group, but there was positive news elsewhere, as leaders Sweden were held 1-1 by Bosnia and Herzegovina, while the Republic of Ireland drew with Luxembourg.
Sweden now have seven points after three matches, while Ireland are on five points.
“There are two very delicate games coming up next time, with Bosnia and Sweden, but we started the group strong and that’s the important thing.”