Italy’s hopes of participating in the 2026 World Cup ended on Tuesday after a tense playoff final against Bosnia-Herzegovina at Stadion Bilino Polje in Zenica, with the match decided by a 4-1 penalty shootout.
The Azzurri, reduced to ten men after Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni received a straight red card for a last-man challenge before halftime, struggled to maintain an advantage despite an early goal by Moise Kean within the first 15 minutes.
Goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma was instrumental in keeping Italy in the game, making nine key saves during regular time. Bosnia eventually equalized in the 79th minute when Haris Tabakovic converted a rebound following a header from Edin Dzeko that Donnarumma had initially saved. Extra time ended without further goals.
In the penalty shootout, Italy’s substitutes Pio Esposito and Bryan Cristante both missed from 12 yards, sealing Bosnia’s progression to the World Cup, mirroring their qualification for the 2014 tournament.
Reflecting on the loss, Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso praised his players’ effort and determination. “These guys really worked hard, cared a lot, and showed real determination, and they didn’t get the recognition they deserved,” he told RAI Sport.
Gattuso described the match as fair but emotionally draining. “If you stab me with a dagger today, nothing will come out, my blood is all gone. It was important for the Italian football movement and it’s sad to have to leave like this,” he said, acknowledging the team’s resilience despite being under pressure.
Asked about his future as head coach, Gattuso remained non-committal: “Talking about my future right now isn’t important. What mattered most was going to the World Cup. We take the performance, but it hurts. We’re disappointed.”
Italy’s exit marks a significant setback for the four-time World Cup winners, who last failed to qualify for the tournament in 2018, and underscores the challenges facing the national team as it seeks to rebuild ahead of future competitions.
