Northern Ireland ace Joel Thompson acknowledged that Italy are a “world-class” side as he set his sights on a big finish in their group campaign at the European Under-19 Championship.
The host nation play their final game of Group A against Norway at Seaview on Sunday (7pm).
Gareth McAuley’s promising prospects were outgunned by the classy Italians 3-0 at Inver Park on Thursday night.
The defending champions displayed a ruthless streak as they cruised to victory with a Francesco Camarda double and Kevin Zeroli strike.
Northern Ireland had held Ukraine to a scoreless draw in their opener but Bernardo Corradi’s side demonstrated why they are the tournament favourites.
Nottingham Forest man Thompson said he had huge respect for Italy while recognising his side could have been sharper.
“It was a good point against Ukraine but we didn’t play our best which made us frustrated,” said the 18-year-old.
“Here, small mistakes cost us the game. There were good bits but we were playing against the champions of our age group. They have some world-class players who play for big name clubs.
“It’s tough but we are still in it. We have a point on the board and will go for three on Sunday.
“We will go out and give it our all, we will see where that takes us.”
Northern Ireland are still hoping to reach the Semi-Finals and also represent Europe at the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup in Chile.
Five of the teams will make it to Chile — four Semi-Finalists, plus the winner of a Play-Off game between the teams finishing fifth and sixth overall.
“We know what we are here to do — to go to the Under-20 World Cup, that’s our aim and we are still in it,” said Thompson, who now has six Under-19 caps.
“Everyone is focused to get the win on Sunday after being disappointed after the Italy game.
“It’s a quick turnaround, you play, rest, train and play. It’s tough physically and mentally but you dream of these challenges.
“We will have another crack at it on Sunday to make that World Cup.”