Trapattoni under pressure in Dublin, Italy one step from the World Cup

On October 10, 2009, in Dublin, Italy had the chance to qualify for the World Cup in South Africa; on the bench was Giovanni Trapattoni and, in the ninetieth minute, Gilardino scored the goal that brought the score to 2‑2, securing the passage. The match was fought against Marcello Lippi's side.

Dublin, the decisive match

To secure the pass, a draw against Marcello Lippi's side was enough, with 80,000 spectators at Croke Park. The tension was high, but Italy could not take control of the game easily.

The first goal was by Whelan, but shortly after Camoranesi responded, bringing Italy level. The response reignited the fans' hopes, despite the growing pressure.

On the bench, in Ireland, was Giovanni Trapattoni, who in the first leg had already tested the Azzurri with a 1‑1 in Bari. That match had left a mark, making the return fixture even more delicate.

Chiellini found the net, but it was ruled out for offside. In the final minutes, St. Ledger headed the ball to bring the score to 2‑1, just seconds from the end.

One minute from the end, the striker who replaced Di Natalé, Gilardino, closed the match with his second goal, bringing the score level at 2‑2 and guaranteeing Italy's passage to the World Cup.

Italy wavers but does not fall, showing that it can become a World Cup protagonist again without having to relive the past. The hope now is to build a solid future on the basis of this qualification.