Northern Ireland rejoice, as Italy see red again

David Leavy's goal was enough to give Northern Ireland its first win of the tournament, proving to be the only goal in a 1-0 win.

The match was not without disciplinary issues, as Leonardo Nacci was sent off in stoppage time for a second bookable offence, joining Gianluca Li Vecchi and Simon Xanina in receiving their marching orders this tournament.

Italy made two changes from the draw with Chile, as Simone Calderera and Alessio Pusterla came in for Daniele Beccegato and Xanina, while Sean Coyle replaced Ryan Walker for Northern Ireland.

The winner came in the 37th minute, a quick-thinking Charley Emerson free-kick finding Leavy, who fired home from close range.

Nacci was then sent off late for fouling Ryan Walker, meaning Italy have three players suspended for their next group game with Scotland. Northern Ireland will next play against South Korea.

Italy
 
Name
Class
Played
Goals Scored
Sub In
Sub Out
Yellow
Red
2
FT2 C
65'
3
FT2 C
65'
4
FT2 C
64'
58'
60' +2
5
FT2 C
65'
6
FT2 RFD 20
65'
9
FT2 RFD 20
65'
12
FT1 R
65'
7
FT2 RFD 20
0'
11
FT1 R
0'
13
FT2 R
0'
Head coach: Simone Pajaro
Northern Ireland
 
Name
Class
Played
Goals Scored
Sub In
Sub Out
Yellow
Red
2
FT1 C
65'
26'
5
FT2 C
33'
31'
6
FT2 C
65'
7
FT2 C
65'
37'
10
FT3 C
65'
60'
12
FT2 C
65'
3
FT1 C
0'
8
FT2 C
0'
9
FT2 C
34'
31'
11
FT2 C
0'
Head coach: Mal Donaghy