Nottingham Forest striker Dale Taylor became one of Northern Ireland's youngest-ever players to make his debut at the age of 17.
Taylor replaced Josh Magennis in the second-half after Ian Baraclough's side overcame Lithuania 1-0 on Friday.
The youngster joined Forest just over a year ago from Linfield and has regularly featured for the under-18s and under-23s, earning him his first international call-up.
"I've never ever had a better feeling than that - that was a dream come true," the teenager told BBC Sport.
Many stood up to applaud Taylor as he took his first few steps on the Windsor Park pitch in the 78th minute.
"To be honest, I don't even know," he added when trying to described how he felt like.
"It was unbelievable. I'm lost for words to be honest with you. That's the first time I've ever played in front of that many fans.
"The manager said to just go out and play my own game, work hard for the team and to not be scared to make mistakes."
Although he was able to show a glimpse of his talent, Baraclough's men now face a tougher opposition in Roberto Mancini's Italy.
The European champions will travel to Belfast as Group C leaders and will need a win to ensure they win the group.
It was only a few months ago the youth prospect watched Italy win the Euros and will now prepare to go against them as he looks for a second international cap.
"I didn't think that at all. I didn't have a clue I would get a call-up to the senior team that soon," he added.
"Obviously, Italy are an unbelievable side, winning the Euros, and it would be unbelievable to go up against them."
