Nicolo Barella and Moise Kean scored in either half as Italy launched their Euro 2020 qualifying campaign with a 2-0 win against Finland in Udine.
Barella gave Italy a flying start at the Friuli Stadium by opening the scoring in the seventh minute and Juventus winger Kean’s effort in the second period sealed the victory.
Barella struck with a deflected shot from outside the penalty area following a half-cleared free-kick. It was the Cagliari midfielder’s first goal for his country.
Italy’s Group J opponents Finland, promoted from the third tier of the UEFA Nations League last year, were not short of confidence.
Italy were content to stretch their opponents on the break and in teenager Kean they had the first half’s most dangerous player.
Kean set up Cristiano Piccini, who fired wide, while Federico Bernardeschi’s effort from outside the area was off target.
Finland mustered the first effort on goal in the second period when Norwich striker Teemu Pukki’s shot was blocked.
Pukki, leading goalscorer in the Sky Bet Championship this season, spurned Finland’s best chance in the 65th minute when he misdirected Robin Lod’s cross.
Italy had a strong penalty appeal waved away soon after when Kean appeared to be fouled by Sauli Vaisanen and substitute Fabio Quagliarella’s header was brilliantly saved by Lukas Hradecky.
