Italy have missed out on three consecutive World Cups after losing to Bosnia

Italy's hopes of qualifying for the World Cup have been dashed once again, as they suffered a penalty shoot-out defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina in the play-off. The Azzurri, who were reduced to ten men after Alessandro Bastoni's sending off, have now missed out on three consecutive World Cups, making them the first former champions to do so. This latest setback follows their absence from the tournaments in 2018 and 2022.

Sandro Tonali was the only player to convert a penalty for Italy, while Bosnia and Herzegovina successfully scored all four of their penalties. Italy initially took the lead through Moise Kean, but the dismissal of Bastoni allowed Bosnia to level the score late in the match. The defeat means Italy's World Cup absence will extend to at least 16 years, with their last knockout match occurring in the 2006 final, which they won.

Defender Leonardo Spinazzola expressed disbelief at the team's elimination, highlighting the disappointment felt by players and fans alike. Head coach Gennaro Gattuso apologised for the failure to qualify, stating that the focus should be on the present rather than his future. The Italian football federation's president acknowledged the significant crisis facing Italian football, calling for a period of rebuilding.

The front page of Italy's leading newspaper captured the nation's sentiment, lamenting what it termed 'the World Cup curse'. Meanwhile, Bosnia and Herzegovina celebrated their advancement to the World Cup, where they will compete in Group B alongside co-hosts Canada, Qatar, and Switzerland. This will mark their second appearance at the tournament, following their debut in 2014.

In other qualifying matches, Sweden secured their place with a late winner against Poland, while the Czech Republic qualified for the first time in 20 years after defeating Denmark on penalties. The Democratic Republic of Congo and Iraq also secured their spots, with both teams set to make their World Cup debuts this summer.

via Sky Sports