Despite a penalty miss during Italy`s 3-1 triumph over Estonia, Mateo Retegui remains resolute about continuing to take spot-kicks for the national team, noting that even top strikers like Erling Haaland have faced similar, or worse, situations.
The match in Tallinn began brightly, with Moise Kean scoring within the first five minutes before unfortunately leaving the field due to a sprained ankle.
Retegui experienced a half of mixed fortunes: he saw his penalty saved but then redeemed himself by scoring Italy`s second goal, assisted by Riccardo Orsolini.
Twenty-year-old Francesco Pio Esposito marked his senior Italy debut with a goal. However, Gianluigi Donnarumma inadvertently conceded, fumbling a straightforward cross directly to Rauno Sappinen, thereby preventing a clean sheet.
Retegui Reflects on Italy`s Progress
Speaking to RAI Sport, Retegui expressed his optimism: “I hope to maintain this form. It was a strong performance, particularly in the first half. Although the second half might have played out differently with a more commanding half-time lead, it was still a respectable effort.” He added, “I`m incredibly proud to represent Italy, and I’m eager to keep contributing to the team`s victories.”
Following Kean`s departure due to a sprained ankle, Inter`s young striker Pio Esposito entered the game, sparking an intriguing new attacking partnership for Italy.
Retegui voiced his concern for his injured teammate: “I feel for Moise; I hope it`s not serious. I spoke with him in the dressing room. I also linked up effectively with Pio. We have a wealth of talented players—Scamacca, Lucca, Raspadori among them—who can all collaborate effectively. Our role is to continue performing, and the coach will make the final selections.”
While Retegui, the former Atalanta striker, had his penalty saved earlier in the game, he highlighted that even Norway`s Erling Haaland faced a tougher scenario in the same 2026 World Cup qualifying group, having two of his spot-kicks saved, with one needing to be retaken due to encroachment.
Retegui concluded, “I watched Norway’s match. I regret the penalty miss, but these things occur. The key takeaway is my commitment to stepping up for the next one and converting it.”
