World Cup qualifiers: Mancini says Italy must overcome anxiety ahead of Northern Ireland

Italy must face Northern Ireland on Friday without the anxiety it caused in the 1-1 World Cup qualifier against Switzerland, but can expect the hosts to make life difficult, coach Roberto Mancini said on Sunday.

Italy are top of Group C with 15 points from seven games ahead of Switzerland, and the winners of the group will play in the finals in Qatar next year.

Mancini’s side will visit Northern Ireland in the final match on Monday, and the Swiss take on fourth-placed Bulgaria.

“We were a little nervous against Switzerland,” Mancini told reporters. “There will be more pressure in Northern Ireland, but it’s important to avoid the same level of anxiety.

World Cup qualifiers: Serbia surprises Portugal to join Croatia in 2022 World Cup

“It’s not going to be easy because Northern Ireland have very little left on their pitch. We need to play the ball fast and keep it on our feet, something we’ve been doing for three years now.

“There have been some difficult moments on this journey that we’re not very used to. But the players don’t have to forget everything we’ve achieved so far.”

Mancini suggested AC Milan midfielder Sandro Tonali could be significantly at stake in the clash with Inter Milan’s Nicolo Barella as well, despite local media saying he was not fully fit against Switzerland.

“Tonali has improved a lot and can start. Barella has recovered, he is in better shape now than when he played against Switzerland,” Mancini said.