Italy will miss a third consecutive FIFA World Cup after suffering a penalty shootout defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina, as Europe confirmed four more qualifiers on Tuesday.
The former world champions were beaten 4-1 on penalties following a 1-1 draw, extending their recent struggles on the international stage.
The Italians took the lead after capitalising on a costly error from Bosnia goalkeeper Nikola Vasilj. Moise Kean reacted quickest to slot home, continuing his fine scoring form after netting in the semifinal against Northern Ireland.
However, the game turned just before halftime when Alessandro Bastoni was sent off, leaving Italy to play the remainder of the match with ten men.
Bosnia and Herzegovina made their numerical advantage count late on, with Haris Tabaković equalising in the 78th minute to force extra time.
Despite several key saves from Gianluigi Donnarumma, Italy faltered in the shootout, missing twice as Bosnia comfortably converted to book their place at the tournament.
Elsewhere, Czechia secured qualification after edging Denmark 3-1 on penalties following a 2-2 draw. Early strikes from Pavel Šulc and a late leveller from Joachim Andersen sent the game to extra time, where both sides scored again before Czechia prevailed from the spot.
Sweden also sealed their place after a dramatic 3-2 win over Poland, with Viktor Gyökeres netting an 88th-minute winner in a pulsating encounter.
Turkiye joined the list of qualifiers with a narrow 1-0 victory over Kosovo, courtesy of a second-half strike from Kerem Aktürkoğlu, marking their first World Cup appearance in 24 years.
Attention now turns to the remaining playoff finals, with DR Congo set to face Jamaica, while Iraq take on Bolivia to determine the final two spots at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.
Source: www.myjoyonline.com
