A commanding first-half display by Italy condemned Northern Ireland to a 2-0 defeat in their opening World Cup qualifier in Parma.
An early goal from Domenico Berardi set the tone for the slick hosts, with Bailey Peacock-Farrell then beaten by Ciro Immobile at his near post.
The four-time World Cup winners have still never lost a home World Cup qualifier, with Thursday's win adding to the 10 victories they secured in 10 Euro 2020 qualifiers.
Northern Ireland responded strongly after the break and went close through Gavin Whyte and Paddy McNair.
Ian Baraclough's men play Bulgaria at home in their next qualifier.
That is next Wednesday night at Belfast's Windsor Park, but before that at the same venue on Sunday, Baraclough must guide his squad through a friendly against USA.
