Italy lost points in North Macedonia

In their Euro 2024 qualifier, Enis Bardhi of North Macedonia delivered a remarkable free-kick, countering Ciro Immobile’s header and securing a 1-1 home draw against Italy in Group C. This result marred Luciano Spalletti’s debut as the Azzurri coach.

Despite Italy’s dominant performance, it was Immobile who found the net with a deft header shortly after halftime, capitalizing on Nicollo Barella’s earlier attempt that had struck the crossbar from long range.

All Goals & Highlights: North Macedonia vs Italy

However, the home crowd was treated to a moment of joy when midfielder Bardhi leveled the score with a brilliant free-kick from just outside the box, sending the ball soaring into the top right corner in the 81st minute.

Italy maintains their position in third place in the group, sharing four points with fourth-placed North Macedonia. It’s worth noting that Italy has played only three games, while their opponents have played four.

Furthermore, Italy holds two games in hand over the group leaders, England, who currently have 13 points. England managed to salvage a 1-1 draw against Ukraine earlier on Saturday, placing Ukraine in second with seven points from four matches. Italy’s next challenge will be hosting Ukraine at the San Siro on Tuesday.