Italy bounce back from England defeat with win against Malta

Italy bounced back from losing to England with a 2-0 victory over a spirited Malta side to earn the first win of their Euro 2024 qualification campaign.

Mancini made eight changes to the side that fell short against the Three Lions and had to endure an uncomfortable first 10 minutes as the hosts threatened to take a surprise lead in the fifth minute when Alexander Satariano was denied by the acrobatics of Gianluigi Donnarumma.

On the quarter-hour mark, Italy earned a corner and from the resulting cross from Sandro Tonali, Mateo Retegui rose highest to head home and give the Azzurri the lead.

Tonali was the provider again 11 minutes later when Pessina flicked his cross into the far corner to double the advantage. 

The visitors threatened to add more goals before the break but were held in the second half much to the annoyance of Mancini.

Italy had a chance to make it 3-0 late in the second half when substitute Gianluca Scamacca's overhead kick from a corner was pushed away by Henry Bonello. 

Regardless, the Azzurri were able to safely negotiate the closing stages to record a victory that lifts them to second, while Malta are rooted to the foot of Group C.