The country, which has a population of just over 33,000 people, was in jubilation last night after beating Liechtenstein 1-0 in the Nations League. Nicko Sensoli’s goal secured their first victory after 34 years of trying.
But with such a small population, it’s far from surprising that football is not a thriving industry in San Marino. In fact, many of the international players have jobs off the pitch that pay the bills.
Here is the starting XI from yesterday’s (September 5) victory against Liechtenstein, and what the players do for a living.
9. RW: Andrea Contadini
22-year-old winger Andrea Contadini made his international debut earlier this year against St Kitts and Nevis; he has also done some modelling in the past. | Getty Images Photo: Getty Images
10. ST: Nicola Nanni
One of the most experienced footballers in the San Marino side, the 24-year-old forward plays for Olbia in Serie D. | Getty Images Photo: Getty Images
11. LW: Nicko Sensoli
Scoring the goal to win San Marino's first competitive game, Nicko Sensoli joined Serie D side Sangiuliano on loan in December last year. | Getty Images Photo: Getty Images