Tonali: Italy Nervous Start, Now Only Option is Victory in World Cup Play-off

Sandro Tonali acknowledged the 'tension' within the Italy squad during their 2-0 triumph over Northern Ireland, asserting that for the upcoming World Cup play-off final, 'there is no other option but to win.'

Playing at the New Balance Arena in Bergamo, the Azzurri found it challenging to penetrate Northern Ireland's defense. The deadlock was finally broken in the 56th minute when Tonali capitalized on a botched clearance, unleashing a powerful shot from the edge of the box.

Tonali proved equally vital in the creation of Italy's second goal, providing an assist that Moise Kean expertly controlled before driving a precise angled shot off the inside of the far post.

Tonali Recalls Italy's Early Nerves Before Crucial Breakthrough

Speaking to RAI Sport, Tonali remarked, "It felt reminiscent of our match against Estonia in Bergamo. We didn't generate an abundance of scoring opportunities, but we faced a physically strong opponent adept at long balls, which has troubled us recently."

He added, "While moments of true quality were sparse, we performed admirably in capitalizing on the ones we did create."

The pressure on the Nazionale was immense, particularly given their absence from the previous two World Cups in 2018 and 2022.

Tonali further elaborated, "There was noticeable tension at the beginning of the second half, but once we secured the lead, our mentality shifted, and we truly began to play without pressure."

He continued, "Our strategy involved neutralizing their strengths and maintaining focus on set-pieces. When we execute that, it's improbable we'll concede against such a team."

Italy now awaits the outcome of the match between Wales and Bosnia and Herzegovina, which has proceeded to extra time, to determine their opponent in the World Cup play-off final scheduled for Tuesday, March 31.

Tonali affirmed, "Our spirits have been positive since the coach's arrival, and we must maintain this momentum. There is truly no other option but to secure victory."

He concluded by dedicating his goal: "I dedicate this goal to everyone because we all deserve to qualify for the World Cup. While we haven't achieved our ultimate goal yet, this still feels like the most significant goal of my career, comparable to my strike for Milan against Lazio."