Sandro Tonali delivered a standout performance as Italy overcame Northern Ireland 2-0 at the New Balance Arena, sending the Azzurri into the World Cup play-off final. The result secures Gennaro Gattuso’s side a chance to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, to be held in Canada, the United States, and Mexico.
Both teams lined up in a 3-5-2 formation, with Italy facing an early scare when Northern Ireland goalkeeper Pierce Charles launched a direct ball that was eventually collected by Gianluigi Donnarumma. The Italian defense, anchored by Gianluca Mancini and Alessandro Bastoni, saw Bastoni pick up a needless yellow card after allowing Shea Donley to get past him. Bastoni also threatened twice from corners before being replaced by Federico Gatti in the 64th minute following his booking.
Tonali set the tempo early, narrowly missing with a sharp header after Federico Dimarco’s corner. Soon after, Dimarco’s deflected cross forced Charles into a quick reaction to keep Italy at bay. The Northern Ireland keeper was called into action again when Dimarco’s angled shot was parried, with Tonali nearly pouncing before Trai Hume cleared the danger.
Italy’s midfield trio of Tonali, Manuel Locatelli, and Nicolò Barella gradually took control as the match progressed. Locatelli frequently advanced from his deep-lying position, threading incisive passes—including one that released Mateo Retegui for a late first-half chance—while also contributing defensively. Barella produced flashes of quality and became more influential after the break.
On the flanks, Matteo Politano started on the right but struggled to make an impact early on. However, Gattuso’s halftime adjustments paid off, as Politano returned with renewed purpose and delivered the cross that led to Italy’s opening goal. On the left, Riccardo Calafiori grew into the match, providing overlapping runs and showing improved defensive awareness in the second half.
Tonali was central to Italy’s best passages of play, his tireless running and ability to link up in advanced areas distinguishing him throughout the night. He not only threatened with an early header but also maintained a constant presence around the Northern Ireland penalty area. Post-match ratings awarded him a 7.5—the highest among Italy’s starters.
Moise Kean also made his mark by scoring one of Italy’s two goals. Early on, Kean had a shot blocked by Brodie Spencer after expertly controlling a long pass. His goal later in the match capped a clinical attacking display.
Northern Ireland were without key players Conor Bradley and Daniel Ballard, limiting Michael O’Neill’s tactical options and compounding their challenge against an Italian side that raised its intensity after halftime. Despite the backing of 1,200 traveling supporters in a tense Bergamo atmosphere, O’Neill’s young squad could not withstand Italy’s sustained pressure.
Donnarumma was largely untroubled in the first half but nearly gifted Donley a chance with a risky moment after the break. Gatti’s introduction helped solidify Italy’s defense in the closing stages as they protected their two-goal advantage.
Italy now move on to the play-off final, buoyed by a composed performance built on midfield control and decisive contributions from Tonali and Kean. The Azzurri will aim to sustain this level as they pursue qualification for this summer’s World Cup finals in North America.
