Italy Under-21s Coach Gigi Di Biagio was glad to “test new players and tactics” in a last-gasp 3-2 friendly defeat to England.
The Azzurrini went behind after five minutes in Southampton, then turned it around to lead 2-1 by the half-hour mark.
A Pierluigi Gollini error allowed the equaliser and with the last kick of the game a corner was bundled over the line for England’s winner.
Italy Under-21s Coach Gigi Di Biagio was glad to “test new players and tactics” in a last-gasp 3-2 friendly defeat to England.
The Azzurrini went behind after five minutes in Southampton, then turned it around to lead 2-1 by the half-hour mark.
A Pierluigi Gollini error allowed the equaliser and with the last kick of the game a corner was bundled over the line for England’s winner.
“Aside from the result, what’s important is the performance,” Di Biagio told Rai Sport.
“We didn’t play that well, but I am happy with the effort and determination of my lads. Towards the end we were under pressure, but I repeat, I am happy with some things and aware we have to work on others.
“We tested new players and something different in terms of tactics. We just need to be more incisive in the final third. I got the answers I was looking for.
“The next friendly with Denmark will be another test of our progress.”