Lorenzo Insigne Scores Two For Italy Against Fluminese In 5-3 Win

Italy were in dire need of a pick-me-up win after a pair of mediocre performances against Ireland and Luxembourg left the side looking utterly unprepared for the World Cup. Fortunately for Cesare Prandelli, and unfortunately for Brazilian club side Fluminese, a certain Neapolitan by the name of Lorenzo Insigne is in the squad.

The Napoli striker was in excellent form for Italy, making a constant nuisance of himself with lethally effective runs and combination play with both Ciro Immobile and his midfield. That lead to him bagging Italy's first and last goals in a 5-3 victory to earn his first international brace, and what a show it was.

Immobile and his hat trick heroism will get the lions' share of the credit for Italy's win, but Insigne deserves his props too. The diminutive striker harried Fluminese's defense for his entire hour on the pitch, pulling defenders out of position with his runs and forcing them in to mistakes with his pressing. His ability to serve not only as a disruptor but also as a creator and finisher is exactly why Prandelli brought him to Brazil, and he proved that worth in this match.

Hopefully this is just the first sign of great things to come for Insigne and this trip to Brazil. The entire city and fanbase are expecting great things from him, and it's not just because he's the only Napoli player in the squad; it's because they all know and have faith that he has it in him to be a star in this tournament if he's given a chance.

Do the right thing, Cesare. Pull that mental trigger and start Insigne against England on the 14th. You won't regret it.