"Italy suffered a 4-1 defeat to Norway in Milan, with Antonio Nusa, Erling Haaland and Jorgen Strand Larsen all scoring in the second half for the visitors after Francisco Pio Esposito's early opener. As such, the Azzurri finished second in Group I, six points behind Norway, who had a perfect record, meaning they will go into the World Cup qualification play-offs for the third consecutive time."
"Our qualification was compromised in Oslo [a 3-0 defeat to Norway in the first qualifier], but we should've done better [on Sunday]. We tried to score the second goal, but then were fragile, and this must not happen again. We've got to see where we got it wrong, as, in certain moments, we need to stay more united. This must not be our level. We can and must do better."
Italy lost 4-1 to Norway in Milan, conceding three second-half goals after an early opener from Francisco Pio Esposito. Antonio Nusa, Erling Haaland and Jorgen Strand Larsen scored for Norway, who finished top of Group I with a perfect record. The Azzurri ended second, six points behind Norway, and will enter World Cup qualification play-offs for a third consecutive cycle. Italy dominated early but lacked finishing after the break as Orjan Nyland kept out their efforts. Manuel Locatelli called the performance fragile and demanded greater unity and responsibility ahead of the March play-offs. The defeat was Gennaro Gattuso's first in charge.
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