Euro 2020 Qualifiers, Finland 1-2 Italy: 3 Talking points from the Azzurri's sixth consecutive victory in the qualifying stages

Jorginho scored a winning penalty for his national side.
Jorginho scored a winning penalty for his national side.

#1 Roberto Mancini's tactical nous was crucial in Italy's victory at Tampere Stadium

Roberto Mancini was questioned for starting Ciro Immobile.
Roberto Mancini was questioned for starting Ciro Immobile.

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.

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