Cesare Prandelli paid tribute to his Italy players after the hard-fought 2-1 victory over Estonia.
Emotional ride for new Italy boss
Cesare Prandelli paid tribute to his Italy players after the hard-fought 2-1 victory over Estonia on Friday.
The Azzurri fell behind in Tallinn but hit back in the second half thanks to goals from Antonio Cassano and Leonardo Bonucci to make a winning start to their Euro 2012 qualification campaign.
The result was especially pleasing for Prandelli as it was his first competitive game in charge after taking over from Marcello Lippi after the World Cup.
"I have a lot of emotion after this win," he admitted.
"I'm happy because in the dressing room after the first half the guys didn't have much faith.
"I told them we could recover and that nothing was lost, and when we came back out there was the reaction I had asked for."
Florence return
Italy face Faroe Islands on Tuesday at the Stadio Artemio Franchi, home ground of Prandelli's former club Fiorentina.
And ahead of his return to Florence, the manager added: "I'm sure I will feel some incredibly strong emotions on an unforgettable evening.
"Perhaps only on Tuesday night will I truly understand everything that has happened over the past few months and I'll feel the pressure.
"I am feeling immense joy looking forward to this match. I hope on Tuesday there will be many people ready to celebrate the Azzurri."
