Italy’s Revival: Azzurri’s Commanding 5-0 Victory Over Estonia Signals New Era Under Gattuso

A Perfect Start for Gattuso’s Italy

Italy celebrated Gennaro Gattuso’s first match as head coach with an emphatic 5-0 victory over Estonia in their World Cup qualifier, with all five goals coming in a spectacular second-half performance after Moise Kean broke the deadlock in the 58th minute.

Match Highlights and Goal Scorers

The scoring exhibition began with Moise Kean’s powerful header in the 58th minute, followed by Mateo Retegui doubling the lead in the 69th minute. Giacomo Raspadori added a third with a superb header in the 70th minute, before Retegui struck again in the 89th minute. Alessandro Bastoni completed the rout in stoppage time with Italy’s fifth goal.

Tactical Evolution Under New Leadership

Gattuso has introduced a new tactical approach focused on attacking play, implementing a bold 4-4-2 formation with two strikers leading the attack. This strategic shift has already paid dividends, sending a clear message that Italy is once again a force to be reckoned with, combining their traditional defensive solidity with a more aggressive, attacking approach.

World Cup Qualification Context

Despite the impressive victory, Italy still faces challenges in their quest to top Group I, following an earlier 3-0 defeat to Norway. However, this performance has instilled belief in the Azzurri’s chances of overtaking Norway in the race for automatic qualification for next summer’s finals in Canada, Mexico and the United States.

Historical Significance

As one of the most successful national teams in international football with four World Cup titles, Italy’s recent struggles have been notable, having missed two consecutive World Cups in 2018 and 2022. Currently competing in Group I alongside Estonia, Israel, Moldova, and Norway, the team knows that only the group winner will qualify directly for the World Cup finals, while the runner-up will advance to the play-offs.