Michael O’Neill proud as young Northern Ireland side lose to Italy in play-off

Italy boss Gennaro Gattuso called the game a “struggle”.

Northern Ireland manager Michael O’Neill applauds the fans. Pic: Mike Egerton/PA

Michael O’Neill could be proud of his Northern Ireland players after their hopes of reaching this summer’s World Cup ended in a 2-0 qualifying play-off semi-final loss away to Italy.

Northern Ireland were always second favourites against the four-time world champions, who were desperate to avoid failing to reach the finals for a third consecutive time, but acquitted themselves superbly before falling to second-half goals from Sandro Tonali and Moise Kean.