Italy failed to qualify directly for the 2022 World Cup after being held to a 0-0 draw by Northern Ireland at Windsor Park, Belfast, Monday (15/11).
The failure to win at the headquarters of Northern Ireland made Italy runner-up in Group C of the 2022 World Cup Qualifiers. Italy was shifted by Switzerland, who came out as group winners after a 4-0 win over Bulgaria at the same time.
Switzerland rose to the top of the standings with 18 points. Meanwhile, Italy dropped to second place because they only collected 16 points and had to accept the reality of appearing in the playoffs to qualify for the 2022 World Cup.
Italy, who needs to win, took the initiative to attack in this match. On the other hand, Northern Ireland played defensively while seeing opportunities to counterattack the visitors’ defense.
Italy created opportunities in the 32nd minute. Chiesa penetrated into the Northern Ireland penalty box which was ended by a left-footed shot but was still too weak and easily secured by the opposing goalkeeper.
Five minutes later Italy got another chance to score. Insigne managed to get into the penalty box but his shot was easily saved by Northern Ireland goalkeeper Bailey Peacock-Farrell.
Northern Ireland almost took the lead 1-0 early in the second half. Jamal Lewis’ low pass was met by George Saville’s left-footed shot but Gianluigi Donnarumma saved the ball that was on target.
Italy got a golden opportunity to score in the 63rd minute. Chiesa managed to outwit a Northern Ireland player after picking up Domenico Berardi’s pass but the Juventus player’s left-footed shot at the far post went narrow on the right.
Italy continued to apply pressure but struggled to penetrate the Northern Ireland defense which appeared solid. Gli Azzurri even almost conceded near the end of the match.
Donnarumma’s error in reading the direction of the ball actually endangered the Italian goal. However, Conor Washington’s shot was too weak for the Italian defender to read.
Italy was never able to score a goal in the remaining time of the game. As a result, a 0-0 draw against Northern Ireland lasted until the second half was over.
Italy is unbeaten in eight Group C matches, but has only four wins and four draws. While Switzerland collected five wins and three draws.
Italy also has to go through the play-off path which will be followed by 12 countries, including Portugal, which yesterday lost to Serbia.
Italy, which is the seeded team in the European zone play-offs, will have a match at the end of March 2022 to determine tickets to appear in the 2022 World Cup. While the draw for the play-off match will take place on November 26.
