Here’s the heartwarming reason why Italy’s Mancini subbed on 34-year-old keeper Sirigu against Wales

Italy’s win over Wales on Sunday at the Stadio Olimpico was significant for a number of reasons.

It meant the Italians won their group and became the first team to ever win their three group games without conceding a single goal.

Head coach, Roberto Mancini even had the luxury of making eight changes to his squad, making even more as the match wore on.

One particular change, however, had a few people scratching their heads initially.

Goalkeeper, Gianluigi Donnarumma, who was one of the three players to keep their place in the team was withdrawn for Torino shotstopper, Salvatore Sirigu with one minute to play.

Some felt it was Mancini’s way of underlining their dominance over Wales, but the actual reason was much less sinister.

When he was still playing football professionally, Mancini was in Italy’s squad for the World Cup in 1990, which they hosted.

However, he didn’t play a single minute in the tournament, which was the only World Cup he went to; he has since said it was his “greatest regret.”

34-year-old Sirigu has played a game each for Italy at the 2014 World Cup and 2016 Euros but Mancini was keen for the goalkeeper to play at a major tournament in front of his own fans.

Sirigu came on in the 89th-minute and helped Italy keep their cleansheet.

On social media, fans praised Mancini for his actions.