Northern Ireland 0-0 Italy: 5 talking points as Azzurri go into play-offs after frustrating draw with Norn Iron | 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifiers

#3 Leonardo Bonucci has ice in his veins

Bonucci rescued Italy from a defeat

We have to talk about that moment from the Italy captain. Northern Ireland were on the brink of a late-winner after Washington got onto the end of a loose ball before Donnarumma, who was way off his line.

The striker skillfully rounded off the PSG custodian and had the entire frame of the goal to shoot. But Bonucci came to the Azzurri's rescue, blocking his shot right on the line.

The 34-year-old produced tremendous composure in that moment. He had positioned himself perfectly to scoop the shot away, a testament to his defensive nous.

---

#2 Northern Ireland give their fans something to cheer about

The best performance of their qualifying campaign

Northern Ireland's wait for a first World Cup appearance since 1986 continued following what was another disappointing qualifying campaign. The side won only twice in 10 games.

However, they gave their fans something to celebrate last night by securing an unlikely point against the reigning European champions.

In fact, it was their best outing in quite a while, executing a fiery counter-attacking brand of football that had their mighty visitors on the ropes. Any other day they might as well have pulled off an upset.

Dallas and Washington will be kicking themselves for making a mess of their gilt-edged chances. But the fans would still be proud of this bunch for their character and mentality.

---

#1 Italy back to square one

Back-to-back World Cup heartbreaks for Italy?

From losing out in the 2018 World Cup play-offs to winning the Euro 2020 title and now dropping into the play-offs again, Italy's life has come to a full circle of sorts.

It's no secret that the Azzurri haven't enjoyed much success on the world stage since winning the 2006 edition. But their fate is about to take yet another ugly turn.

Unlike the play-off structure four years ago, the sides playing this round won't have a second chance, as the games are just one-legged. So the margin for error will be too small.

Also, it's really competitive. With big guns like Portugal and Sweden, their conquerors in 2017, also in the hat, Italy can expect a challenge in the play-offs.

However, they'll be hoping for a different outcome.