Northern Ireland’s hopes of reaching a first World Cup since 1986 have ended after a 2-0 defeat to Italy.
Sandro Tonali and Moises Kean scored the goals in Bergamo as Italy progressed to the World Cup play-off.
Dejection was the feeling for Northern Ireland players after the match.
O’Neill’s Reaction to the Defeat
Northern Ireland boss Michael O’Neill reacted to his side’s defeat in Bergamo, stating: “The players gave everything”.
Ethan Galbraith told BBC Sport NI that, “I thought our shape for most of the game was excellent. We left everything out there, so I am proud of the lads”.
Galbraith added: “When you come against elite players sometimes, they do a bit of magic like they have done. We are disappointed but all proud of the performance.”
He also said: “Massively. It is a very young group, so the future is bright from the lads. From when we started playing to now, I think you nailed it on the head, we have come a long way.”
Dallas on Italy and the Future
Stuart Dallas, speaking on BBC One NI, said Tuesday is going to be a difficult game, as it is a dead rubber game.
However, Dallas believes it could be a chance for Michael O’Neill to try something different.
Dallas added: “It doesn’t mean anything in the context of the game, but you want to go into the summer off the back of a win.”
On Italy, Dallas said: “It is frustrating, I feel like they were there for the taking. I know Italy is a big nation. I have played against a lot of big nations before and I think, at the minute, they are not at the levels they once were, so they were frustrating.”
Dallas said of the World Cup dream being over: “It is gutting to be honest. As I have said before, I thought they were there for the taking but we just didn’t do enough.”
When asked if he will play another campaign, Dallas said: “Of course, I am only 30!
Zola and McNair’s Post-Match Thoughts
Gianfranco Zola, speaking on BBC One NI, said: “The two brothers [Pierce and Shea Charles] were brilliant, both of them. A lot of quality. This national team have a very good future, they have potential and they need to keep growing and improving.”
Zola added: “When they get something more in the final third of the pitch, there will be a big improvement.”
Northern Ireland defender Paddy McNair told BBC Sport NI: “When you lose a game, it is always frustrating. I thought first half we were really comfortable and even the start of the second half.”
McNair continued: “Tonali scores a good goal from the edge of the box and it gives them a lift. The crowd was getting onto their backs at times and we wanted to stay in the game as long as possible. The second goal killed the game.”
What’s Next for Northern Ireland?
Northern Ireland will now have a friendly on Tuesday against the loser of Wales v Bosnia-Herzegovina, which has gone to a penalty shootout.
There will be live TV, radio and text commentary for that game.