Euro 2016 qualifying: Italy fails to inspire in narrow victory over Malta

Italy did as little as possible to secure a 1-0 victory over 160th-ranked Malta on Thursday, scoring a goal in the process that could have been called back.

Striker Graziano Pelle - the only real offensive weapon for the Azzurri in recent months - appeared to handle the ball as he redirected a cross from substitute Antonio Candreva in the 69th minute. The goal stood, and Italy vaulted into first place in Group H with 15 points.

Italy usually has problems breaking down its Mediterranean neighbour, and that was the case again in Florence. The Maltese put numbers behind the ball and often snuffed out Italy's attack.

But Italy did itself no favours. Only four of its 17 shots actually hit the target, further emphasising the team's lack of firepower. The passes arrived from midfield - Marco Verratti in particular was effective - but the end product simply wasn't there.

It's common to watch Italy struggle in qualifying, only to take off in the actual tournament. Coach Antonio Conte, despite taking the job last year, still hasn't put his stamp on the squad, with no formation or set of players truly lasting for games on end.

"Winning was what mattered today," Conte told Rai after the match, courtesy of Gazzetta World. "The result always hung in the balance, but I am happy with the desire my players displayed."

As a manager, he is more about results than style. But even Conte must know these kinds of uninspiring performances against smaller sides cannot inspire much confidence among players and supporters. Fewer than 10,000 people were expected to attend the match - with the stadium half-empty. And it's no surprise: The Azzurri on their own are no longer a big enough draw to attract even a football-mad country like Italy.

The signs are worrying, but the standings are - somehow - just fine. Italy has yet to lose a competitive match under Conte since his first game in charge in September 2014.