Under-21 Coach Gigi Di Biagio has “unlimited faith” in Italy ahead of a must-win qualifier in Northern Ireland.
It kicks off on Wednesday at 16.00 GMT in Lurghan and the Azzurrini won 3-0 back in November.
Under-21 Coach Gigi Di Biagio has “unlimited faith” in Italy ahead of a must-win qualifier in Northern Ireland.
It kicks off on Wednesday at 16.00 GMT in Lurghan and the Azzurrini won 3-0 back in November.
“It’s going to be a difficult game, very similar to the last one,” warned Di Biagio in his Press conference.
“They have everything to gain, while we have only a single objective – victory – and we must achieve it. I expect the usual determination from those who are on the field and have unlimited faith in my players.
“If we do what we are capable of, then there won’t be any problems. Those who step on to the pitch have to be more men than players, because it’s a game where focus and concentration will make the difference even more than skill.”
Sassuolo” data-scaytid=”7″>Sassuolo striker Domenico Berardi was frozen out after breaking the code of ethics, as he was sent off at the weekend for lashing out an elbow at Parma’s Cristian Molinaro.
Italy must also do without Andrea Belotti and Matteo Bianchetti due to last-minute injuries.
“It would’ve been better to have more players at my disposal, but in any case I have many options and can count on a responsible group that leaves me very reassured.”
Italy are currently third in Group 9 on nine points from five games. Serbia have 10 points from five matches, while Belgium are top on 13 from six encounters.
Northern Ireland are last in the group with three points from six games.