Antonio Candreva enjoyed Italy’s new 4-3-3 system, but felt Croatia “lacked fair play” on their goal.

The Lazio midfielder scored against Croatia in both Euro 2016 qualifiers, 1-1 in Split and at San Siro in November 2014.

“The Coach asked us for a performance of character and courage, so I think we did that and deserved something more,” he told Rai Sport.

Antonio Candreva enjoyed Italy’s new 4-3-3 system, but felt Croatia “lacked fair play” on their goal.

The Lazio midfielder scored against Croatia in both Euro 2016 qualifiers, 1-1 in Split and at San Siro in November 2014.

“The Coach asked us for a performance of character and courage, so I think we did that and deserved something more,” he told Rai Sport.

His equaliser this evening was a Panenka-style penalty. Was he nervous at such a crucial moment of the match?

“I thought of doing it and was fortunate.”

There was controversy around the Croatia goal, as they netted on the counter while Italy were protesting for a disallowed Stephan El Shaarawy strike.

“El Shaarawy scored, we were celebrating and embracing him when we saw the linesman lift his flag quite late.

“I don’t know if they took a quick free kick in the right place, but it all happened behind us before we even realised. We suddenly found ourselves a goal down.

“It wasn’t really fair play from Croatia, as half the team was down the other side of the pitch. They told us at half-time that El Shaarawy’s goal was not offside too.”

Italy adopted a new 4-3-3 system that replicates the way Candreva’s Lazio play in Serie A.

“In our country we are the first to criticise ourselves. We are improving, had a fantastic performance tonight and deserved a victory, so we must build on this.

“I have been in this position for a few years now and am happy there, but we are testing out different systems and will see how we go from here.

“Was it my best performance for Italy? I’ve had others…”

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