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After securing five successive victories in the Euro 2020 qualification campaign, Italy faced a tough task to overcome a determined Finland side in a daunting atmosphere at the Tampere Stadium.
Starting the game as the favourites, the Azzurri, as expected, dominated the possession as Huuhkajat waited to pounce on any mistakes made by them while moving the ball. Despite their dominance, Finland started the game with a terrific chance from a corner kick, where Joona Toivio arrived late at the far post.
But, as the game progressed, Roberto Mancini's side were able to create openings in the Finnish side. Stefano Sensi forced a terrific save off Lukas Hradecky, denying Italy a crucial lead. However, Markku Kanerva's side stayed in the game as first-half ended at 0-0.
With the start of the second half, Italy were more determined to score and Frederico Chiesa's deflected cross was turned in by Ciro Immobile. However, Teemu Pukki's individual brilliance earned Finland a penalty - eventually converted by the striker himself.
Despite Finland's best efforts, Italy's dominance translated into their winning goal as Jorginho converted a penalty on the other end to hand Azzurri all three points.
Here are the major talking points from La Nazionale's sixth qualification stage victory.
#3 Italy's midfield felt the absence of Marco Verratti
With Marco Verratti serving his suspension, the midfield which Roberto Mancini was supposed to pick for the Finland game became a major point of debate. Given the Paris Saint-Germain player's vision and tenacity, it was widely anticipated that Mancini's engine-room would find it difficult to run in his absence.
As predicted by many, in spite of dominating the ball, Italy found it difficult to move the ball at a brisk pace around the pitch. This led to Finland keeping a compact shape for a major part of the game. Jorginho, who flourished as a regista against Armenia, cut an isolated figure in this game.
The Chelsea man's only impact on this contest was his calm penalty which eventually ended as the winning goal. Also, the budding duo of Stefano Sensi and Nicolo Barella, terrific in the linkups, also displayed glimpses of inexperience in their game as they disjointed the midfield shape.
Still, this Italy side is a work in progress with a plethora of young talents finding their feet at the international stage. Roberto Mancini has done a commendable job to create an environment for them to express themselves and also improve at the same time.
#2 Finland were determined but were unfortunate to end on the losing side
Given the evident gulf of quality between the two sides, Markku Kanerva opted for a very low block of 5-4-1 against the Azzurri. The Italians caused a variety of problems to the Finnish defence, with either Immobile's clever off the ball movements, or wide players stretching the defence.
But, one thing Finland made sure that this game was not one-way traffic with Italy barging in on them for the full 90 minutes. The Eagle-Owls had a specific plan to press Gianluigi Donnaruma - given his propensity to misplace the pass under pressure. Teemu Pukki executed this plan at various junctures, earning his side a few throw-ins or corners.
In the second half, Glen Kamara pushed on and tried to thread a pass to release Pukki. With his industry and tenacity, the Rangers midfielder caused a spell of mild panic where Stefano Sensi eventually, committed an error, leading to Finland's equaliser.
With both teams set to earn a well-deserved point with a potential draw, a harsh penalty call on Sauli Vaisanen cruelly snatched away that plaudit from Kanerva's XI.
Still, the Finland side is well poised to book their spot for next year's continental tournament.
#1 Roberto Mancini's tactical nous was crucial in Italy's victory at Tampere Stadium
The credit for Italy securing a tight win against Finland goes to the coach, Roberto Mancini. Right from the starting XI, to the substitutions, Mancini's every move was planned to perfection.
Starting Ciro Immobile in place of an in-form Andrea Belotti was a daring move from the Italian tactician. But, the benefits were reaped when the Lazio striker repaid manager's faith by putting his national side ahead. The 29-year-old's headed strike was his first for Azzurri since 2017.
In addition to his goal, Immobile's clever off-the-ball movements generated space for midfield players or the wingers to make an inside runs.
The former Manchester City coach's decision to bring on Belotti and Federico Bernanrdeshi was crucial as their energy and vibrancy stretched the Finnish defence. The Torino strikers cheeky lay-off was pivotal in Italy's penalty claim.
All in all, Mancini deserves acclaim for his meticulous moves on a tough overall night for La Nazionale.
