Player Ratings: Italy 2-0 Moldova – Inspiring Raspadori and too many risks

Cambiaso 6.5 – In love with the ball. Far from his best version, but two of his three dribbles were successful, and he also scored the second for the Azzurri.

Frattesi 6 – His trademark late runs produced some chances for the Azzurri. The Inter defender had his best chance in the second half, but his shot from a good position was saved.

Ricci 6.5 – 92% accurate passes and four ground duels won from five. Easy, given that Moldova didn’t press much? Maybe, but resting him in Norway surely wasn’t the best idea. (46′ Barella 6)

Tonali 6.5 – The Newcastle star covered two different roles as he became the Italy playmaker in the second half when Barella replaced Ricci.

Dimarco 6 – Just two accurate crosses from ten, a goal-line clearance before the break was the highlight of his performance. He wasn’t always in the best position to put the ball in. No coincidence that his replacement provided an assist with one of the first touches. (46′ Orsolini 7)

Retegui 5.5 – Kept Moldova defenders busy with his physicality inside the box, but didn’t have many big chances. Difficult, with just 26 touches. (71′ Lucca 6).

Raspadori 7 – Broke the deadlock and appeared to dedicate his goal to Spalletti. Inspired Italy’s attacks with three key passes. (76′ Maldini N/A)

Coach: Spalletti 6 – Spent the whole game in front of his bench, giving the final instructions to his players and seeming discouraged at times. Italy won the game, but a lack of unity was still evident from this match. Parting ways was the right thing; the timing and manner remain debatable.

Moldova: Avram 7; Baboglo 5.5, Mudrac 5.5, Dumbravanu 5.5; Platica 6, Ionita 6 (72′ Dros 6), Bodisteanu 5.5 (58′ Motpan 6), Reabciuk 6.5; Caimacov 6 (65′ Stina 5.5), Nicolaescu 6.5 (72′ Damascan 6), Postolachi 5.5 (65′ Perciun). Coach: Cleșcenco 6.