"We need to use our squad," said head coach Roberto Martinez. "Nelson Semedo and Joao Cancelo played 45 minutes [against Ireland] and are full of energy; they play in demanding positions. "Bruno Fernandes arrives full of energy. It's all about attitude, focus, playing with joy and without anxiety, with the support of our fans, and remembering that we have other very different players on the bench who can be very important."
Italy left it late but eventually claimed a 2-0 win away to Moldova to secure their spot in the World Cup qualifying play-offs. Gennaro Gattuso's side dominated from the start, creating a flurry of early chances, yet Moldova's defensive rapproach kept the match goalless until the closing minutes. The breakthrough finally arrived in the 88th minute when Dimarco floated a precise cross for Mancini to head in. Substitute Esposito then added a second with a powerful header from Politano's delivery.
Latvia's Group K campaign has already seen them tested by heavyweights England, but Paolo Nicolato's men responded with two credible results on either side of that defeat, overcoming Andorra before sharing the spoils with Albania. That 1-1 draw on June 10 proved particularly eventful for defender Antonijs Cernomordijs, who endured a rollercoaster evening by conceding an own goal, netting the equalizer and collecting a yellow card that now sidelines him through suspension.
