Italy Miss Third Straight World Cup
Italy will miss a third straight FIFA World Cup after losing on penalties to Bosnia and Herzegovina in a European qualifying play-off, extending one of the most dramatic droughts in modern international football. The defeat means the four-time world champions are now set for at least 16 years away from the tournament stage.
Italy Miss Third Straight World Cup
Italy failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup after a 1-1 draw following extra time ended in a penalty shootout defeat. Bosnia and Herzegovina converted all four of their spot-kicks, while Sandro Tonali was the only Italy player to score from the spot. The result confirmed another major setback for the Azzurri after also missing the 2018 and 2022 editions.
Bosnia Beat Italy In Play-Off Drama
Italy had moved ahead in the 15th minute when Moise Kean capitalised on an error by Bosnia goalkeeper Nikola Vasilj. The match changed in the 41st minute when Alessandro Bastoni was sent off for a last-man foul on Amar Memic. Bosnia and Herzegovina took advantage in the second half, with substitute Haris Tabakovic scoring the equaliser in the 79th minute to force extra time and eventually penalties.
Bosnia Secure Historic World Cup Return
Bosnia and Herzegovina have now qualified for only their second World Cup, with their previous appearance coming in 2014. They will now head into Group B, where they are set to face co-hosts Canada, Qatar and Switzerland. The result marks a major milestone for Bosnia, while Italy’s absence becomes one of the defining stories of the European qualifying campaign.
Italy World Cup Drought Deepens
Italy’s last World Cup knockout match remains the 2006 final against France, which they won on penalties. Since then, the Azzurri have failed to progress from the group stage in their last two appearances and have now missed three consecutive tournaments, a first for any former World Cup-winning nation.
