Monza coach Raffaele Palladino was delighted with matchwinner Daniel Maldini in victory.

The result has Monza in good shape for European qualification.

Palladino said: "Beautiful victory, the match wasn't played well technically, we have to be honest. But it was also thanks to Cagliari. Then Daniel Maldini pulled out a gem that put us ahead and then the team spirit came out which allowed us to risk very little.

"The only flaw was not having closed the match with 2-0. But I'm very proud of what the players are doing. We must be the loose cannon of the championship, in the last 9 we will compete. Knowing that there are great teams, but we will try. It wasn't our goal but now we're trying to give our best.

“Daniel has talent and shooting, he put the ball into the top corner in an impressive way. Even though up until that point he wasn't doing well and he knows it because I told him. I really like him, a serious guy who has to give continuity to his performances.

"(Italy coach Luciano) Spalletti is a great coach, many of our players can aspire to wear the Italy shirt. They are giving it their all and we hope that at the end of the championship they can make it to the national team."