SOME 144 PLACES separate Italy and Malta in the latest Fifa world rankings, but the Azzurri didn’t have it all their own way against the minnows in last night’s Euro 2016 qualifier.
1-0 up through Graziano Pelle, Antonio Candreva attempted to ensure his side would take all three points by winning an 87th minute penalty.
Running towards Zach Muscat, the Lazio midfielder flung himself to the floor in dramatic style.
Thankfully, the referee was wise to his shenanigans and Candreva was correctly booked for simulation.
The game finished 1-0 putting Italy level with Croatia at the top of Group H on 15 points.
