Jorginho failed to convert another penalty on his return to the Italy squad, his third miss in a row, but Luciano Spalletti and teammates showed support.
There had been debate leading up to the match against North Macedonia as to whether Jorginho would take a penalty and coach Spalletti had said he would ‘absolutely’ be in favour if the Arsenal midfielder decided to take on that responsibility.
When Federico Gatti’s header was charged down by a hand, Jorginho spoke briefly with Domenico Berardi – the other player who was in line to take it – and grabbed the ball.
However, this was perhaps the worst penalty of his career, a hop, skip and jump followed by an incredibly weak and central prod that was easily saved by the goalkeeper.
Including the penalty shoot-out in the EURO 2020 Final against England, that is four times in a row he has failed to find the back of the net, three in open play.
Nonetheless, RAI Sport note that Spalletti looked to Jorginho and gave a reassuring applause.
The pressure was further taken off his shoulders by the fact that Federico Chiesa scored moments later for a 2-0 lead.
Jorginho missed two penalties against Switzerland in the 2022 World Cup qualifiers, including one at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome, the venue for tonight’s match.
However, he is not alone, as ‘Spillo’ Altobelli also missed three penalties for Italy.