Italy's Roberto Mancini on World Cup miss after North Macedonia shock: 'I don't know what to say'

play

The loss to North Macedonia left Italy out of the World Cup for the second year in a row, and Roberto Mancini was left with a loss for words.

Italy was frustrated for 90 minutes by a heroic North Macedonia defensive performance, and the only goal of the game was scored in the second minute of added time.

European, African World Cup qualification can be seen on the US network.

- Don't have ESPN? Get instant access

The victory in Palermo means that North Macedonia will play Portugal in the final of the playoffs on Tuesday with a place in the World Cup on the line.

It's hard to say something right now, I don't know what to say

Italy won the European Championship in dramatic fashion against England in Wembley last summer.

Last summer was the most beautiful joy, now comes the greatest disappointment. I am very sorry for the boys, I love them more tonight than in July.

The boys are not responsible because I am the coach. They are strong players for the national team and have a great future. We didn't deserve this loss.

Italy had 32 shots at goal to North Macedonia's five, but it was not as if the visiting goalkeeper had the game of his life. The home side did not score because of their wastefulness.

Italy captain Giorgio Chiellini said that he was proud of his teammates, but that they had to start again.

I hope the coach stays because he is essential to this team. We have to return to winning, go to the Euros and return to the World Cup in four years.

Jorginho missed a penalty against Switzerland last year that would have given the Italians a win that would have qualified them for the playoffs.

Jorginho told Rai Sport that it was a huge disappointment.

We have created and dominated matches, but have not been able to finish them off. The reality is that it is not to blame anyone in particular.

I am also involved in this and it hurts me to think about it.

The coach of North Macedonia could see the irony of the victory.

He told reporters that they won Italian style against the Italians, with a goal and two shots on target.

This report used information from the news agency.