Giampiero Ventura insists there were “steps forward” for the Italy squad in their 1-0 win over Israel, but “we were sluggish in the first half.”

Ciro Immobile’s header proved enough for a slender victory in Reggio-Emilia.

Italy are one point off being mathematically sure of a play-off spot after Albania were held to a 1-1 draw in Macedonia.

Giampiero Ventura insists there were “steps forward” for the Italy squad in their 1-0 win over Israel, but “we were sluggish in the first half.”

Ciro Immobile’s header proved enough for a slender victory in Reggio-Emilia.

Italy are one point off being mathematically sure of a play-off spot after Albania were held to a 1-1 draw in Macedonia.

“It was evident that the priority was the result, but I am happy. I am happy because staying in the opposition half for 80 minutes is tough,” the Coach told Rai Sport.

“We were sluggish in the first half, but picked up the pace and put balls into the box constantly. It’s evident there is a lot more work to do, we do what we can over three days, but I am satisfied with how the team worked.

“I think they realised that if they had the same tempo as in the second half, they’d have created many, many more chances. We take it one step at a time.”

The Azzurri were jeered off the pitch at half-time and there were grumbles throughout the match.

“When you don’t score, there can be a little disappointment, but if you want to be a team, you can’t listen out for applause or jeers.

“When we look back over this game, we’ll see the steps forward. Everyone from the day of the draw said the World Cup play-off was likely, so it’s not a surprise. If we had a victory over Spain, it would’ve been abnormal.”

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