Northern Ireland had their World Cup dream ended with a 2-0 defeat to Italy in their play-off semi-final.
Michael O’Neill’s side were aiming to reach their first World Cup since 1986, but second-half strikes from Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali and former Everton striker Moise Kean crushed their hopes despite largely frustrating the four-time winners on home turf.
Italy remain under major pressure to qualify having failed in their last two attempts and will now head to Bosnia and Herzegovina on Tuesday for a spot at this summer’s tournament.
Northern Ireland held out until half-time in Bergamo after surviving Italy’s early onslaught when a cross struck their left post before Pierce Charles saved well from Federico Dimarco inside the opening 10 minutes.
Ethan Galbraith led a rare moment for Northern Ireland on the counter-attack, but saw his deflected shot comfortably saved by Gianluigi Donnarumma when passing to Isaac Price was the better option.
Italy made their pressure pay at the start of the second half after Mateo Retegui had wasted a chance when clean through before Charles saved down low to his right from Kean.
Price’s poor headed clearance fell perfectly on the edge of the box for Tonali, who had returned from injury after missing the derby against Sunderland, and he struck first-time into the right corner.
Italy never looked like giving up their lead from there, with Northern Ireland toothless in attack. Charles saved from Kean again, who then sent an overhead kick wide, but his perseverance paid off when he controlled a high ball in the area and slotted in off the left post to secure the win.
‘Northern Ireland bow out with pride’
Sky Sports News’ Jamie Weir at the New Balance Arena:
“The Northern Ireland players, understandably, looked devastated as the final whistle blew. There was so much to be proud of in that performance, and this is a young squad only at the beginning of their journey together, but it will still sting.
“The travelling green-and-white army gave them an enormous cheer as the players went over to applaud them.
“It remains to be seen whether next week’s friendly against Wales could be Michael O’Neill’s final game as head coach.”
