Albania’s Nedim Bajrami pounced on a blunder from a throw-in by Federico Dimarco to score after just 23 seconds, but the Azzurri came back with goals from defender Alessandro Bastoni and midfielder Nicolo Barella.
“The calmness with which we managed to recover from going behind was the strongest signal to take away [from the game], said the former Italy and Juventus captain.
“We did well, showing that we are a balanced team with self-awareness.
“Despite a shock start that could have destabilised us, we continued to play our game.
“Then there are some things that need perfecting.
“With a bit more ruthlessness and aggression, we probably wouldn’t have run the risk of seeing a crucial victory slip away in the final minutes.”
Italy now face Group B rivals Spain, who beat Croatia 3-0 in their first game, in Gelsenkirchen on Friday morning (AEST).
ANSA
