“I’m not interested in the record for consecutive wins, it would mean more to win two World Cups and an Olympics but I’d settle for the European Championship,” joked Roberto Mancini after equalling Vittorio Pozzo’s record of nine straight wins.

“In the first half, we struggled after not immediately coming up with the second goal but it’s normal when you change lots of players,” he added when looking back at the match. “I saw positive reactions but other things could be improved. We’ve not played much together and this has been the problem.”

The record, five goals, two debutants and a number of young players competing for places ahead of EURO 2020. “Di Lorenzo and Cristante? If they’re here it’s because we believe in these players. In June however, some good players will have to stay at home. They’ll get other chances, we’ll look to improve as a team and then we’ll see. It makes me happy that the guys have great relationships with one another.”

It was a special evening for Belotti who scored another brace against Liechtenstein. “This side is lucky for me,” joked the player. “Two goals like last time. I’m very happy, for our performance above all. We did what the Coach asked of us. We did what the Coach asked of us. You can see that there’s a more confident Italy side with desire to do what the Coach wants, the group is following his ideas. We’re showing some good stuff on the pitch after what happened two years ago.”

Di Lorenzo was satisfied after making his debut. “I’m happy for the whole team, it was important to keep this run of wins going. We’re a good group and there’s a good atmosphere and it’s easy for the new guys to fit in. This morning, I knew that I would play and I looked to play my game while doing what Mancini asked of me. I owe a lot to Ancelottti, he’s put faith in me since the first game and I’m also here thanks to him. Now, it’s on me to keep doing well for Napoli and the Azzurri.”