Roma attacker Stephan El Shaarawy contributed to Italy’s 5-2 win over North Macedonia last night.
The 31-year-old came off the bench in the second half, scoring a crucial goal to put the game to bed near the full-time whistle.
In his post-match interview with Sky Sport, El Shaarawy described what it felt like to score for his country in Roma’s own Stadio Olimpico.
“A wonderful emotion to find the goal again, here at the Olimpico it has an even more special taste. I dedicate it both to my family and to myself. Today, however, it was important to win and we are satisfied that we did it.”
“Now, we rest for two days and then prepare as best we can for the decisive match against Ukraine. It has always been part of who I am to work hard,” he continued. “And wait for the coach’s choices and make an impact at the right time. I’m not surprised because I know how much effort and dedication I put in.”
“Today’s victory is an important one but it shouldn’t reassure us. We have to stay focused because everything is still at stake. Left winger is the position in which I have played the most in recent years: with Mourinho’s gameplan I am further away from goal, while with this formation I can be closer and have more scoring opportunities.”
