Estonia 1–3 Italy – Azzurri regain momentum with commanding Group I win in UEFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers
Italy secured a confident 3–1 victory away at Estonia in Tallinn, keeping their chase for a top-two finish in Group I alive in the UEFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers.
Estonia 1-3 Italy – Match Info
- Competition: FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers – UEFA, Group I
- Venue: A. Le Coq Arena (Tallinn, Estonia)
- Date: 12 October 2025
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Highlights: Estonia 1–3 Italy
Under Gennaro Gattuso’s management, Italy continue to show signs of revival and determination. Despite a late goal conceded due to a handling error from Gianluigi Donnarumma, the Azzurri remained in full control throughout 90 minutes, claiming their third consecutive win in the qualifiers.
The visitors struck early. In the 9th minute, Moise Kean broke the deadlock with a composed finish into the far corner after a clever through ball from Federico Dimarco. It was Kean’s fourth goal in his last three international appearances, further cementing his form for both club and country. Unfortunately, his night ended prematurely after a minor ankle injury, with youngster Francesco Pio Esposito coming on to replace him.
In the 25th minute, Italy earned a penalty when Mateo Retegui was brought down inside the box. However, Estonia’s goalkeeper Karl Hein guessed correctly and kept out the spot kick. Retegui quickly redeemed himself, though — just 13 minutes later, he doubled Italy’s lead with a close-range strike from Riccardo Orsolini’s precise cross.
After halftime, Italy maintained their attacking intent. Retegui came close to a brace as his clever chip rattled the crossbar, while Raspadori and Cambiaso both missed chances to extend the lead. In the 77th minute, 20-year-old Esposito put the result beyond doubt, finishing neatly at the near post from Leonardo Spinazzola’s low cross — his first-ever goal for the national team.
Estonia grabbed a consolation in the 81st minute after Donnarumma failed to hold a long-range effort, allowing Rauno Sappinen to tap home. Still, the 3–1 win keeps Italy’s perfect run alive under Gattuso and reflects a fresh, energetic side led by a new generation of attacking talent.
Group I Standings update after Italia crushed Estonia
What’s Next
Italy vs Israel – 15 October 2025
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Estonia vs Moldova – 14 October 2025
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