The Italy national football team will not play at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after losing to Bosnia and Herzegovina national football team in a dramatic European playoff final. The match ended in a draw before Bosnia and Herzegovina triumphed in a penalty shootout to secure qualification.
Italy had taken the lead early in the game, but Bosnia equalised late, forcing penalties. The Azzurri struggled from the spot, converting only one attempt as Bosnia claimed victory and booked their place at the tournament.
The defeat means Italy will miss the FIFA World Cup for the third consecutive time, having also failed to qualify for the 2018 and 2022 editions. This marks a significant decline for the four-time world champions, who last won the tournament in 2006.
The result has sparked widespread disappointment among fans, as Italy extend their long absence from football’s biggest stage despite the tournament expanding to 48 teams.
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