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Italy Unleashes a Precious 3-1 Victory in Estonia to Boost World Cup Qualifiers Hopes

11 October 2025

Italy Unleashes a Precious 3-1 Victory in Estonia to Boost World Cup Qualifiers Hopes
Italy celebrate a 3-1 victory away from home in Estonia

Match Recap

Italy clinched a 3-1 victory away to Estonia in the European qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup. Moise Kean opened the scoring in the fifth minute, with Matteo Retegui adding a second in the 38th and Francesco Esposito completing the scoring in the 74th. Rauno Sappinen struck for Estonia in the 76th.

How the game unfolded

Italy dominated from the start, pressing Estonia's defense and testing the goalkeeper with an early left-footed effort from Raspadori in the third minute.

Moments later, Kean put Italy ahead after a left-wing move started by DiMarco, finishing with his right foot.

Kean picked up an ankle issue in the ninth minute and was briefly treated before being replaced by Esposito in the 14th minute as a precaution. Retegui had a late first-half penalty saved by the Estonian keeper, while a precise Orsolini cross set up Retegui for the second goal.

In the 74th minute, Esposito headed home a cross from Spinazzola to seal the win; Estonia pulled one back two minutes later when Rauno Sappinen finished a foray into the box.

Italy pushed on in the closing stages, but held on for a deserved 3-1 victory, cementing their position in the group.

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Emma Amme

I am Emma Amme, an English sports journalist born in 1998. Passionate about astronomy, contemporary dance, and handcrafted woodworking, I share my sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the final score?

Italy won 3-1 away to Estonia in the European qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup.

Who scored for Italy?

Moise Kean opened the scoring, Matteo Retegui added a second, and Francesco Esposito completed the scoring; Rauno Sappinen scored for Estonia.

Were there injuries?

Kean picked up an ankle issue in the ninth minute and was substituted in the 14th minute with Esposito coming on.

What is Italy's standing after the win?

Italy moved to 12 points from five games, six behind group leaders Norway.