Northern Ireland more than held their own against Italy at Windsor Park on Friday night and were rewarded for their efforts with a 0-0 draw against the 2006 world champions.
Following a 1-0 victory against Slovenia last month, Nigel Worthington's side were unlucky not to come away with maximum points - David Healy failing to take advantage of a great chance in the first-half.
The Sunderland striker headed wide at the back post after a cross from deep by Chris Brunt.
Northern Ireland played with a degree of confidence throughout and Warren Feeney saw a header narrowly clear the bar in the 72nd minute.
Two minutes later it was Italy's turn to go close when Antonio Cassano's effort was superbly tipped over by home 'keeper Maik Taylor.
However, the drama was not over and Italy substitute Giampaolo Pazzini could have sealed it for Cesare Prandelli's side in the 86th minute but wasted the chance and headed wide of the post.