Since becoming its own nation, Moldova has never qualified for the World Cup, having not won a match during qualification since the lead-up to the 2014 tournament. Moldova has lost both of its first two matches of qualification this year, losing to Norway, 5-0, back in March, before losing a spirited 3-2 affair to Estonia.

With a parting gift for Luciano Spalletti, Italy has beaten Moldova 2-0 for its first points in the beleaguered national team’s attempt to reach the World Cup for the first time since 2014.

Sacked Italy manager Luciano Spalletti bowed out with a victory after his side laboured to an uninspired 2-0 home win over Moldova in their World Cup qualification match on Monday thanks to goals from Giacomo Raspadori and Andrea Cambiaso.