Darmian strikes & Verratti dominates as Italy book place at Euro 2016

The Manchester United full-back scored his first goal for his country in a victory over Azerbaijan, while the PSG midfielder put in a typically assured performance
He is yet to open his account for Manchester United, but Matteo Darmian scored his first international goal on Saturday night as Italy secured qualification for Euro 2016.


Darmian let fly from distance, sending a thumping shot beyond Azerbaijan goalkeeper Kamran Agayev in the 3-1 victory over Azerbaijan.

The defender operated largely on the right in a full-back role, but ventured into a central position to extend his side's lead in the second half and all but secure the three points.

Darmian impressed, but the game was controlled by Marco Verratti. Sitting in a position in front of the back four for much of the game, only centre-back Leonardo Bonucci had more touches of the ball and attempted more passes than the PSG midfielder, who rarely strayed beyond the halfway line.

Verratti also made more tackles (six) and interceptions (five) than any of his team-mates, and provided the assist for Eder to open the scoring with a pass from deep in midfield in what was close to a complete performance.