Back to the Soccer Newsfeed

Italy vs. Albania: Score and Reaction for World Cup 2018 Qualifying

Claudio Villa/Getty Images

Italy kept the pressure up on Spain at the top of FIFA 2018 World Cup qualifying Group G on Friday, as they beat Albania 2-0 at the Stadio Renzo Barbera.

Daniele De Rossi gave the hosts an early lead from the penalty spot, calmly slotting home in the 12th minute after Andrea Belotti was fouled.

In the second period, the match was temporarily suspended as smoke from the Albanian end of the stadium impaired visibility. Once the action resumed Italy secured the three points, with Ciro Immobile guiding home a header at the back post.