Euro 2012: Gritty Northern Ireland hold Italy in Belfast
Northern Ireland 0 Italy 0
A spirited Northern Ireland held four times world champions Italy to a goalless draw in Belfast, giving their Euro 2012 qualifying hopes a huge shot in the arm in the process.
Nigel Worthington’s side could have taken the lead in the first half, but David Healy could only head a Chris Brunt cross wide, before goalkeeper Maik Taylor reacted well to keep out Italy forward Marco Boriello.
Italy’s Antonio Cassano began to make his presence felt in the second period, and twice went close to giving his side the lead, before Giorgio Chiellini aimed a free header wide with the goal at his mercy.
Steven Davis came close for the hosts in the second period, but Italy really should have won it late on when substitute Giampaolo Pazzini headed a golden opportunity across goal instead of towards the target. Giuseppe Rossi then turned it into the side netting.
The point is a huge boost for Northern Ireland, who head to the Faroe Islands on Tuesday with a chance to join the Italians at the top of Group C.
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