Italian National Team Revives Under Gennaro Gattuso, A Third Consecutive Win Sparks New Hope

Bornheimer – The Italian national team continued their winning streak under Gennaro Gattuso, claiming a convincing 3–1 victory over Estonia in Tallinn during the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers. This result marked their third consecutive win since Gattuso took charge a sign that the team is finally rediscovering its rhythm. From the first whistle, Italy played with intensity, structure, and a sense of purpose long missing in previous campaigns.

Early Dominance and Tactical Precision

Italy started aggressively, and it paid off almost immediately. Moise Kean opened the scoring in the fourth minute, converting a well-placed cross from Federico Dimarco. Later, Mateo Retegui doubled the lead in the 38th minute, showing composure after a series of missed chances. The third goal came from youngster Francesco Pio Esposito in the 74th minute, sealing the win. Estonia managed only a consolation goal when Rauno Sappinen capitalized on a rare error from Gianluigi Donnarumma a reminder that even the best can falter under pressure.

Gattuso’s Tactical Evolution Takes Shape

Under Gennaro Gattuso, the Italian national team now plays with fire and clarity. His system emphasizes vertical intensity and quick transitions, blending grit with tactical intelligence. The hallmark of his coaching relentless pressing and emotional drive was evident throughout the match. Gattuso’s Italy attacks with purpose, defends with passion, and above all, plays with unity. Though still imperfect, this version of Gli Azzurri feels alive again.

Sandro Tonali: The Heart of the Midfield Symphony

At the center of Italy’s dominance stood Sandro Tonali, orchestrating play like a conductor leading an orchestra. With an impressive rating of 8.5, the Newcastle midfielder combined elegance and aggression. His crisp passes, positional awareness, and constant movement kept Estonia chasing shadows. Tonali’s performance recalled the golden generation of Italian midfielders Pirlo, De Rossi, and Verratti players who controlled tempo with calm authority.

Support Cast: Barella, Dimarco, and Calafiori Shine

Nicolo Barella, Tonali’s midfield partner, played a quieter yet equally vital role, ensuring stability and rhythm in transitions. Federico Dimarco, meanwhile, delivered one of his best performances in an Italy shirt an assist, endless runs down the left, and constant energy. Behind them, Riccardo Calafiori was immense defensively. His aerial strength and growing composure at the back reflected a player increasingly comfortable under Gattuso’s trust.

Pio Esposito’s Dream Debut and Donnarumma’s Lesson

When Kean was forced off due to injury, young Francesco Pio Esposito seized his moment. With confidence beyond his years, the Inter Milan prodigy scored his first senior international goal, announcing himself as Italy’s next big thing. Retegui, despite missing a penalty earlier, redeemed himself with a composed finish. Yet not everything went smoothly Donnarumma’s blunder that led to Estonia’s goal drew criticism. With a rating of 4.5, his lapse served as a harsh reminder that even routine matches demand full focus.

Player Ratings: Balance Between Experience and Youth

Italy’s collective performance stood out more than individual brilliance.

Donnarumma: 4.5 – Costly mistake but otherwise untested.
Calafiori: 7.5 – Commanding in the air and composed on the ball.
Dimarco: 7.5 – Relentless energy and a crucial assist.
Tonali: 8.5 – The maestro of midfield; everything flowed through him.
Barella: 7.0 – Reliable as ever, kept balance in transitions.
Orsolini: 7.5 – Provided width and an assist.
Kean: 7.0 – Early goal, unfortunate injury.
Pio Esposito: 7.5 – Scored on debut, full of promise.
Retegui: 7.5 – Mixed night, but his goal restored confidence.
Gattuso (Coach): 7.0 – Strong tactical reading and excellent player management.

Gattuso’s Influence: Discipline Meets Passion

What separates this new Italian national team from previous eras is attitude. Gattuso’s fiery persona has reignited the squad’s hunger. His players fight for every ball, yet they do so with tactical intelligence. Gattuso’s post-match comments reflected maturity: “We must play with the heart, but also with a clear mind.” That balance of emotion and strategy defines his early tenure Italy is no longer just defending its legacy; it’s rewriting it.

The Resurgence of Identity

For years, Italy struggled to define its footballing identity post-Euro 2020. The lack of direction was evident in their World Cup 2022 absence. But Gattuso’s arrival has brought a visible shift a renewed sense of identity rooted in effort, energy, and national pride. The players now move with purpose, communicate more, and celebrate small victories as a team. It’s not just about winning; it’s about believing again.

Looking Ahead: Building on Momentum

This third consecutive win cements Italy’s position near the top of Group I and injects confidence heading into tougher fixtures. However, consistency will be the real test. Gattuso’s challenge now lies in maintaining intensity and developing depth. Integrating young talents like Pio Esposito while keeping veterans sharp will determine how far this project goes. Yet, one thing is certain Italy has rediscovered its fighting spirit.

Gattuso’s Italy Is Alive Again

Under Gennaro Gattuso, the Italian national team feels reborn. Every match now carries energy, emotion, and purpose. The mistakes are still there, but so is the progress. With Tonali commanding the midfield, Dimarco flying down the flanks, and youngsters like Esposito emerging, Italy is once again playing like a team that believes in itself. The Gattuso era may just be the beginning of a new Italian renaissance one built not on fear, but on passion.