The Italian national team has performed quite poorly in the EURO 2024 qualifiers. Before the match against Malta, they were third in Group C with 7 points, 6 points behind group leader England and 3 points behind Ukraine.
The Azzurri have suffered a serious decline since winning EURO 2020, so they are forced to beat Malta to keep their hopes of qualifying for the finals next year alive.
The Italian team easily dominated the match, enjoying the home advantage. They controlled 67% of the ball possession and unleashed 18 shots. In contrast, the Maltese team only managed two shots on goal against goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.
The Italian team easily defeated Malta.
Italy launched an overwhelming attack. Their three attacking stars – Domenico Berardi, Giacomo Raspadori, and Moise Kean – wreaked havoc on the Maltese defense. The visitors only managed to hold out for the first half before conceding the first goal.
In the 22nd minute, Giacomo Bonaventura received the ball just outside the penalty area before turning and unleashing a superb shot to open the scoring. The goal gave the home team more freedom to play. Towards the end of the first half, Domenico Berardi curled a skillful shot to double the lead.
In the second half, Italy maintained their high-speed style of play. The third goal came as a matter of course. In the 63rd minute, Giacomo Raspadori dribbled down the left wing before crossing the ball. Moise Kean's missed shot inadvertently created a perfect scoring opportunity for Domenico Berardi. The Sassuolo striker easily completed his brace.
Before the final whistle, substitute Davide Frattesi sealed a 4-0 victory for Italy. Coach Luciano Spalletti's team took second place in the group from Ukraine, ahead on goal difference.
In the next match, on October 18th, Italy will face England. This match will determine the top spot in the group. However, the reigning EURO 2024 champions are at a disadvantage as they will be playing away from home and must win to overtake their opponents.
Result: Italy 4-0 Malta
Score a goal
Italy: Giacomo Bonaventura (22'), Domenico Berardi (45'+1, 63'), Davide Frattesi (90'+3)
Van Hai
Source
