Mateo Retegui on target again as Italy defeat Malta 2-0

Italy secured their first win in Euro 2024 qualifying with a comfortable 2-0 victory over Malta at Ta’ Qali National Stadium.

Mateo Retegui who scored on his international debut against England, opened the scoring for Italy in the 15th minute with a simple tap-in from Sandro Tonali’s corner.

Matthew Guillaumier then turned Emerson’s cross into his own net to double Italy’s lead 12 minutes later.

Despite a frantic scramble in the Italy area in the second half, Malta failed to trouble the visitors, who secured all three points.

Italy had a scare in the fifth minute when Malta captain Alexander Satariano went one-on-one with goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, but the AC Milan shot-stopper made a crucial save to deny the hosts.

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Wilfried Gnonto limped off injured soon after, but it did not affect Italy’s dominance.

The win takes Italy to three points, three behind Group C leaders England, who defeated Ukraine 2-0 earlier in the day.

Henry Bonello denied substitute Vincenzo Grifo to keep the scoreline respectable at half-time, but Italy continued to create chances in the second half. Gianluca Scamacca’s acrobatic effort forced another good save from Bonello, but the visitors cruised to their first victory in qualifying for Germany 2024.

Retegui’s second goal in two games will delight coach Mancini, who is hoping the 23-year-old can continue to make an impact for Italy.

The victory will also provide a boost for Italy ahead of their next qualifying match against Bosnia and Herzegovina.