The world champions got back to winning ways, as they took the points on their travels in Montenegro.

Italy were the stronger team on the night, as they saw off Montenegro 2-0 at the Stadion Pod Goricom, in front of a hostile crowd.

Andrea Pirlo and Giampaolo Pazzini grabbed the decisive goals, with the latter managing to score on debut for the Azzurri. It was a fantastic effort by the Sampdoria man in particular, as he continued his amazing run of form that has seen him drastically turn his career around this year.

“This is a beautiful period for me,” Pazzini affirmed in an interview with Rai Sport.

“In two months I have changed my life. Even tonight, I managed to score a decisive goal that affected the result. I would like to thank Simone Pepe for his great assist.

“I still do not believe it. I am thoroughly enjoying this moment and I want it to continue.

“I'm finding great continuity in performances and again, I hope it continues. I am really very happy,” he concluded.

Italy host Ireland next week, where they will be hoping to emerge victorious yet again, which would all but book their spot in next year’s World Cup.