Fabio Capello expressed his belief that Italy displayed ‘pride’ and ‘soul’ during their 2-0 victory against Northern Ireland in the World Cup play-off semi-finals on Thursday night. He also believes the Azzurri secured the most favourable outcome from the semi-final matchups.
Under Gennaro Gattuso’s guidance, the Italian squad advanced closer to 2026 World Cup qualification with their decisive 2-0 win over Northern Ireland in Bergamo. Italy is now set to face Bosnia in the play-off final, after Bosnia defeated Wales on penalties in Cardiff shortly after Italy’s match concluded. The decisive fixture will take place in Bosnia on Tuesday evening.
Reflecting on Italy’s win against Northern Ireland, Capello confessed to La Gazzetta dello Sport that he was “screaming like a madman on the sofa,” emphasizing his deep connection to the national team: “For me, the national team is much more than any other team.”
Capello noted Italy’s slow start and lack of intensity in the first half, attributing it to Northern Ireland’s tenacious defense. He explained that Northern Ireland “put their bodies and focus into it,” effectively stifling Italy’s attacking flow in the final third and limiting their goal-scoring opportunities.
While acknowledging Bosnia’s “good technique” and superiority over Northern Ireland, Capello candidly stated his belief that “in terms of spirit and pace, Wales would have been a more difficult obstacle, especially at their home.”
Capello also offered his insights on his former player, Gennaro Gattuso, who now holds a record of five wins and two defeats in his seven matches as national team coach. Commenting on Gattuso, Capello observed, “I thought he looked a bit tense, which is normal, but also quite fired up on the bench.” He further praised the team’s commitment: “We saw a national team that put its soul into it and fought for it. As an Italian, I know well that we’ve had stronger teams in the past, of course, but what I can’t tolerate is a lack of pride, of competitiveness.”