Northern Eire had their World Cup dream ended with a 2-0 defeat to Italy of their play-off semi-final.
Michael O’Neill’s aspect had been aiming to succeed in their first World Cup since 1986, however second-half strikes from Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali and former Everton striker Moise Kean crushed their hopes regardless of largely irritating the four-time winners on residence turf.
Italy stay underneath main stress to qualify having failed of their final two makes an attempt and can now head to both Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina on Tuesday for a spot at this summer time’s event.
Northern Eire held out till half-time in Bergamo after surviving Italy’s early onslaught when a cross struck their left publish earlier than Pierce Charles saved nicely from Federico Dimarco contained in the opening 10 minutes.
Ethan Galbraith led a uncommon second for Northern Eire on the counter-attack, however noticed his deflected shot comfortably saved by Gianluigi Donnarumma when passing to Isaac Value was the higher choice.
Italy made their stress pay firstly of the second half after Mateo Retegui had wasted an opportunity when clear by earlier than Charles saved down low to his proper from Kean.
Value’s poor headed clearance fell completely on the sting of the field for Tonali, who had returned from damage after lacking the derby in opposition to Sunderland, and he struck first-time into the appropriate nook.
Italy by no means appeared like giving up their lead from there, with Northern Eire toothless in assault. Charles saved from Kean once more, who then despatched an overhead kick large, however his perseverance paid off when he managed a excessive ball within the space and slotted in off the left publish to safe the win.
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