There were a few surprises in the Italy starting line-up: Sirigu replaced Buffon, who has a fever, between the sticks while Barzagli returned to the side after a long absence. He played alongside Bonucci and Chiellini. The midfield was made up of Darmian on the right, Candreva, Verratti, Bertolacci, who replaced the injured Marchisio, in the middle; Antonelli was on the left. Zaza partnered Immobile up front to complete Conte’s starting XI.
Ciro Immobile had a great chance in the first minute but his effort was deflected behind for a corner. The Azzurri took the lead just three minutes later: Bertolacci’s ball towards Zaza, who was lurking at the far post, was turned into his own net by Minev. The lead only lasted seven minutes – Popov found the bottom corner of Sirigu’s goal from long range.
Italy allowed their Bulgarian counterparts too much space, which allowed them to create chances. The second Bulgarian goal typifies this. Popov’s dangerous cross was headed home by Micanski to put the hosts in front.
After falling behind, Italy started to push for an equaliser. Immobile could have levelled after 20 minutes but his close range header flew wide. Bulgaria almost made it three before the break but Popov’s free kick hit the bar before going over.
Eder came on to make his debut 12 minutes into the second half; he replaced Zaza. Verratti could have levelled one minute after the change but his shot was off target. With just over 20 minutes to play Immobile’s shot after a mazy run was kept out by the goalkeeper.
Conte made two more changes within five minutes of each other: Bertolacci was replaced by Soriano; Gabbiadini came on for Antonelli. The change in personnel brought with it a change in tactics. The starting 3-5-2 formation became 3-4-3 and his ingenuity was rewarded. Eder’s delightful turn and shot from the edge of the Bulgarian penalty area levelled the scores and crowned his debut in perfect style. Italy ended the game strongly and had a great chance to win it but Gabbiadini’s precise effort went just wide.
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