Since becoming its own nation, Moldova has never qualified for the World Cup, having not won a match during qualification since the lead-up to the 2014 tournament. Moldova has lost both of its first two matches of qualification this year, losing to Norway, 5-0, back in March, before losing a spirited 3-2 affair to Estonia.

With a parting gift for Luciano Spalletti, Italy beat Moldova 2-0 for its first points in the beleaguered national team's attempt to reach the World Cup for the first time since 2014. There was also a significant victory in World Cup qualifying for Belgium on Monday,

With a parting gift for Luciano Spalletti, Italy has beaten Moldova 2-0 for its first points in the beleaguered national team’s attempt to reach the World Cup for the first time since 2014.