Italy vs Northern Ireland Play‑offs: Squad, Line‑up & Retegui Penalty Taker
Squad Overview
The Azzurri squad for tonight’s play‑off against Northern Ireland features Gianluigi Donnarumma in goal alongside Carnesecchi and Meret. Defenders include Mancini, Bastoni, Calafiori, Palestra, Dimarco, Spinazzola, Buongiorno, Gatti and Scalvini. The midfield boasts Locatelli, Tonali, Barella, Pisilli, Cristante and Frattesi. Up front are Politano, Retegui, Raspadori, Kean and Pio Esposito. Injured players Vicario, Di Lorenzo and Zaccagni will watch from the stands.
- Goalkeepers: Donnarumma, Carnesecchi, Meret
- Defenders: Mancini, Bastoni, Calafiori, Palestra, Dimarco, Spinazzola, Buongiorno, Gatti, Scalvini
- Midfielders: Locatelli, Tonali, Barella, Pisilli, Cristante, Frattesi
- Forwards: Politano, Retegui, Raspadori, Kean, Pio Esposito
Probable Starting XI
Coach Gattuso is expected to line up Italy in a 3‑5‑2 formation: Donnarumma in goal; a back three of Mancini, Bastoni and Calafiori. The midfield five will feature Politano, Tonali, Locatelli, Barella and Dimarco. Up front, Retegui partners Kean, with Pio Esposito on the bench as the first‑choice substitute.
Potential Penalty Takers
Gattuso confirmed that Retegui will take any penalty during regular time. According to *La Gazzetta dello Sport*, the other likely takers are Kean, Politano, Tonali and Locatelli, the latter ready despite a recent league mistake.
“We have a quality, experienced squad. We need to stay calm and composed, and now that we’re about to take to the pitch, we just need to give 200%. Calmness, a relaxed approach and taking control of the game – we must take the initiative and win. We’re ready for this decisive challenge; it’s time to show everyone who we are,” said Mateo Retegui.
Coach Gattuso’s Pre‑match Approach
Having missed a formal training camp, Gattuso organised a team dinner to strengthen bonds before the decisive match. He emphasized a calm, relaxed mindset and urged the players to give their all, highlighting the importance of composure in this “most important match of my career”.
