It was Cutrone who hit the post ten minutes in with the first real chance. Verde scored in the twelfth minute from a set piece. By the corner flag, he hit it to the near post and it went in thanks to a lack of concentration from the Russia goalkeeper.  Bonazzoli then had two chanes to extend the lead only for Russia to score in the 46th minute through Rasskazov.
 
After the break, Scuffet came on for Audero. The rhythm dropped and Russia looked dangerous on the break. Di Biagio made further chances with Orsolini, Parigini, Favilli and Murgia all coming on while Felicioli was given his debut. The Azzurrini almost went behind in the 66th minute as Chernov hit the post and Russia went ahead almost straight after as Bakaev found the net with his left foot. With their pride stung, Italy reacted with great determination and upped the tempo. After some great play from Cutrone on the wing, the extraordinary goal from Parigini in the 77th minute made it 2-2 as he picked out the corner. There was a chance to win it ten minutes from time as a handball was awarded in the penalty area but Cutrone missed from the spot. Orsolini then made up for his teammate’s error in stoppage time with a great left-foot shot. 
 
“It’s always nice to win a game, even more so if you play well,” said Di Biagio after. “We did well to take the game by the hand but there was a lot to improve.” ]]>