The Azzurri were among the favourites for a medal in Beijing, but fell 3-2 to a Belgium side that played with 10 men for 75 minutes.

“We were lacking sharpness, both in attack and defence,” said the tactician following this humiliating exit.

“I don’t know why that was the case and I am not looking for any excuses. If we lost today, then clearly we made mistakes.”

The players were furious with the referee for not awarding two clear penalties, while Belgium’s first goal did not appear to cross the line.

“The referee only influences the game to a certain degree and besides the decision on that goal was made by the linesman,” sighed Casiraghi.

His position in charge of the Italy Under-21 side is now under pressure after disappointing results in both the European Championship and Olympics.

“The project continues in my view, even if that is the last thing on my mind right now,” he continued.

“Overall, I consider our work here positive, but when you find yourself in these in-or-out crunch matches and can see qualification so close, it is a cruel feeling.”