Inter Milan Icon Blasts Italy Center-Back For Bizarre Own Goal In 5-4 Thriller: “More Serious Mistake Than One Made By Locatelli” | OneFootball

Beppe Bergomi criticized Inter Milan center-back Alessandro Bastoni after last night’s performance in the Italy shirt.

Speaking to Sky Sport via FCInterNews, the 61-year-old took stock of Bastoni’s display in Debrecen, Hungary.

Bergomi didn’t like what he saw from Alessandro Bastoni in last night’s FIFA World Cup qualifier between Israel and Italy.

Indeed, his sloppy own goal in the 87th minute paved the way for the home side’s comeback.

Furthermore, Ran Ben Shimon’s side would go on to level the score at 4-4 one minute from time.

However, Sandro Tonali found the net in the first minute of second-half stoppages to inspire Italy to a 5-4 win.

In doing so, the Newcastle United midfielder helped Gennaro Gattuso win his second consecutive game in charge of the Azzurri.

More importantly, the four-time world champions have reduced the gap to Group I pacesetters Norway to three points.

Yet, Bastoni’s erratic showing drew unwanted attention.

Inter Milan Icon Beppe Bergomi Blasts Italy Center-Back Alessandro Bastoni

HARRISON, NEW JERSEY – MARCH 24: Alessandro Bastoni of Italy in action during the International Friendly match between Ecuador and Italy at Red Bull Arena on March 24, 2024 in Harrison, New Jersey. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)

Before Bastoni’s own goal, Juventus captain Manuel Locatelli accidentally beat Gianluigi Donnarumma in the first half.

However, Bergomi believes Bastoni’s mistake was far graver, stemming from a lapse in concentration rather than mere misfortune.

“I think the player himself knows he could have handled it better,” he said.

“It’s always difficult for a left-footer to clear with the right foot, but that’s something taught from youth levels.

“He just needed to use the inside of his foot. It’s a more serious mistake than Locatelli’s.

“Bastoni is an intelligent kid. It was a matter of inattention and lapse in concentration. He understands now, and it won’t happen again.”

Bergomi’s statement makes sense, especially considering Bastoni’s elite status in European football.

Indeed, a player of his quality can ill-afford to make a mistake like that in such a crucial moment of the game.

Hopefully, the 26-year-old will be at his best when Inter take on Juventus this weekend.