ITALY’S failure to qualify for the World Cup could fall at the feet of one unsuspected man.
The four-time world champions sensationally failed to qualify for the tournament in Russia for the first time since 1958 following a play-off defeat to Sweden.
Many have stuck the knife into under-fire manager Gian Piero Ventura for Italy’s shoddy performances – and rightly so.
But there is one familiar name who could take more responsibility than anyone else… former Swansea flop Eder.
Back in 2015 Portugal went into a clash with Antonio Conte’s Italy with just four wins out of the previous 24 between the nations.
With Cristiano Ronaldo absent, it looked an uphill task for the 2016 Portuguese winners.
But Eder, who has scored four international goals in 33 appearances, pounced on a stunning Ricardo Quaresma cross to hand Portugal a win.
It was a debut goal for his country but more importantly it condemned Italy to be unseeded for the 2018 World Cup qualifying draw.
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After being knocked down to pot 2 they were replaced by the mighty Romania.
And Eder’s goal appeared crucial in Italy’s failure as they went onto to face Spain in the qualifying group.
The striker failed to score a single goal during his time at the Liberty Stadium.
And so Swans supporters were left stunned when he scored the winner to fire Portugal to Euro 2016 glory.
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