Despite changing coaches, Italy couldn’t break their North Macedonian curse, as they had to settle for a disappointing 1-1 draw away from home. Luciano Spalletti’s men dominated the action in the first half and then managed to take the lead through Ciro Immobile right after the interval. However, the Azzurri dropped back to defend their slim advantage and ultimately paid the price as Enis Bardhi beat Gianluigi Donnarumma with a stunning freekick. So here are our player ratings for Italy who only managed to add a single point to their Euro 2024 qualifiers tally from in trip to North Macedonia.
Italy (4-3-3)
Gianluigi Donnarumma – 5.5
The PSG man didn’t have much to do throughout the match, but some would say he could have done better to deny Bardhi’s freekick since it landed at the corner that he was covering.
Giovanni Di Lorenzo – 5.5
This wasn’t the splendid Di Lorenzo that delights Napoli fans with his productive displays week in week out. His delivery just wasn’t on point.
Gianluca Mancini – 6
A decent outing from the Roma stalwart who pulled off some important interceptions at the back, even though he was caught out of position on some occasions. He had to leave the pitch before the hour mark after sustaining a knock, much to José Mourinho’s dismay.
Alessandro Bastoni – 6.5
A generally solid outing from the Inter centre-back who made some crucial interventions to deny the Macedonians.
Federico Dimarco – 6
The Inter wingback was a menacing force on the left flank during the first half but wasted a major opportunity to score with a poor touch. His impact dwindled after the break.
Nicolò Barella – 7
The Sardinian was arguably the best performer amongst Italy players. Put Tonali through on goal with an exquisite play, while it was his shot that bounced off the post, allowing Immobile to score the solitary goal for the visitors. But even he ran out of steam as the match progressed.
Bryan Cristante – 5.5
The Roma midfielder sat deep in front of the defense. Contributed little to the play buildup.
Sandro Tonali – 6
An energetic display from the Newcastle star who almost broke the deadlock, but his shot was denied by the post. He was always willing to support the attacks, but at times lacked the quality touch.
Matteo Politano – 5
Spalletti resorted to his tried-and-tested servant but the Napoli man had a torrid first half against the cunning Ezgjan Alioski. Wasted an important opportunity to score and was hauled off at the interval.
Ciro Immobile – 6
The Italy captain scored what could have been the winner on Spalletti’s debut, pouncing on the rebound with a clinical header. But aside from the goal, his display was far from inspiring.
Mattia Zaccagni – 5
Another winger who suffocated on the flank against the tough Macedonian defenses. Not much to write home about for the Lazio man.
Substitutes
Nicolò Zaniolo – 4.5
A below-par outing from the Aston Villa man who was noticeably wasteful on the ball. He was also the culprit on the equalizer.
Giorgio Scalvini – 5.5
The Atalanta youngster replaced the injured Mancini in the second half and had a mild display.
Cristiano Biraghi – N/A
Wilfried Gnonto – N/A
Giacomo Raspadori – N/A
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