Gennaro Gattuso has praised the unwavering support of Italy’s fans while shifting full focus to the decisive World Cup play-off final against Bosnia and Herzegovina following victory over Northern Ireland.
The Azzurri kept their World Cup dream alive with a composed 2-0 win in Bergamo, but it was far from straightforward.
After a tense and cagey opening half, Italy stepped up the tempo after the break, eventually breaking through and sealing their place in Tuesday’s high-stakes final in Zenica.
From the first whistle, Northern Ireland proved stubborn opponents, frustrating Italy with a disciplined defensive setup.
As the game progressed, the Azzurri struggled to find rhythm, with their buildup play appearing slow and predictable in the opening exchanges.
However, just like a team finding its second gear, Italy emerged sharper after the interval.
Sandro Tonali ignited the breakthrough, lifting the pressure inside the stadium, before Moise Kean put the contest beyond doubt with a clinical finish.
“It wasn’t easy at all,” Gattuso said. “We could have done better in the first half. Locatelli dropped too deep, he would come forward and we were always playing with a back four.
“In the second half, we picked up the pace, the ball moved faster, and we kept them there.”
With momentum now on their side, Italy turn their attention to the final hurdle: a one-off clash away to Bosnia, who edged Wales on penalties in their own semi-final.
The encounter promises to be fiercely contested, with high intensity expected from kickoff to the final whistle.
The Italian coach, who specifically chose Bergamo as the venue, was quick to acknowledge the fans’ role in pushing the team forward.
“In the first half, I heard very few boos, and in the second half, we came back to applause. Thanks to the fans in Bergamo and all the fans in Italy.
“Now we’re off to play this final. Bosnia is an experienced team; we’ll find a warm stadium. It will be another very difficult match.”
As Italy prepare to travel from Bergamo to Zenica, the stakes could not be higher.
With a place at the World Cup on the line, the Azzurri know they must raise their game once more to cross the finish line.
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