Sandro Tonali inspired Italy to a 2-0 victory over Northern Ireland as the Azzurri moved closer to qualifying for the FIFA World Cup.

Italy moved a step closer to their first FIFA World Cup appearance since 2014 after defeating Northern Ireland 2-0 in their play-off semi-final, with Sandro Tonali delivering a standout performance.

Goals from Tonali and Kean help us into the World Cup play-off final 👏🇮🇹#ITANIR #Azzurri #VivoAzzurro pic.twitter.com/Bks5L2bYLf

— Italy ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (@Azzurri_En) March 26, 2026

The Azzurri had suffered heartbreak in the previous two World Cup qualifying play-offs, but the atmosphere in Bergamo was electric as supporters backed their team from the start. Italy responded quickly, testing goalkeeper Pierce Charles through an early volley from Federico Dimarco.

Northern Ireland gradually grew into the contest, with captain Trai Hume helping keep Italy at bay. The visitors maintained defensive discipline, frustrating the four-time world champions for much of the first half.

Italy continued to push before the break, with Alessandro Bastoni heading over and Mateo Retegui forcing a routine save, but Northern Ireland reached halftime level thanks to their organised defending.

The visitors nearly handed Italy an opportunity early in the second half when Terry Devlin underhit a backpass, though Brodie Spencer recovered well to deny Retegui. Soon after, Charles produced another fine save to stop Moise Kean.

Italy eventually broke through when a clearance from Isaac Price fell kindly for Tonali, who fired a low strike into the net to give the hosts the lead and ease growing tension.

As Northern Ireland pushed for a response, Italy created further chances, with Kean and Pio Esposito going close, before Kean sealed the victory by controlling Tonali’s looping cross and finishing via the post.

The win marked Italy’s sixth in seven matches under Gennaro Gattuso, setting up a decisive play-off final against either Wales while Northern Ireland’s wait for a World Cup return continues.