Northern Ireland U-19 manager Gareth McAuley said his side contributed to their own downfall following a 3-0 defeat to Italy at Inver Park.
Bernardo Corradi’s side featuring several sparkling Serie A gems conjured magic in Larne.
After a scoreless draw with Ukraine in their opener, the home side anticipated a tougher challenge and Italy enjoyed a 2-0 lead at the break.
Goals from Kevin Zeroli and Francesco Camarda had the Azzurri youngsters firmly in control.
Just three minutes after the restart, AC Milan’s 16-year-old striker Camarda rifled in the third.
“I’m disappointed because the goals we conceded came despite what we talked about,” said the former Northern Ireland defender.
“If you concede goals against Italy you expect to be cut open but we had a bouncing ball in the box that wasn’t dealt with.
“You talk about game management and getting to half-time but we suffered a sucker blow just before the break which changes the half time team talk.
“Then we come out again and bang, we are 3-0 down. It’s pretty much gone, recovering from three down against a side of this quality.”
Simone Pafundi almost made it 4-0 with a free kick that sailed just wide but Italy were a different class on a wet night in Larne.
“There were some good things in the structure, but we knew how they would play and we looked to counter that,” added McAuley.
“We got some good moments and passing but they are a good side. I thought Jack Doherty was unbelievable, he emptied the tank and did well against real quality players.”
Former Manchester City and Italy ace Corradi was thrilled with his side’s composed display.
“It was not as easy game, they are defensively strong and the rain made the game a bit faster,” he said.
“All the players did a good job and we are happy. We should be in the World Cup in Chile which is important.
“We have one more game before the semi-final when we hope to be at our best.
“I’m so proud of the guys. it’s very hard for me to select a team because the standard is so high.
“They deserve to play in a semi-final, we have to rest and recover in quick time.”
Northern Ireland finish their group campaign against Norway on Sunday at Seaview while Italy face Ukraine at Inver Park.