Italy's hopes of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup ended abruptly on 31/3 after a 1-4 penalty shootout defeat to Bosnia & Herzegovina at Bilino Polje stadium. The match, which saw Italy leading early, took a dramatic turn after a crucial red card. Moise Kean opened the scoring for Italy in the 15th minute with a curling shot. However, Alessandro Bastoni received a direct red card before halftime for preventing Amar Memic from a clear scoring opportunity. Playing with ten men, Italy conceded an equalizer in the 79th minute when Haris Tabakovic scored a close-range rebound, forcing extra time and penalties. In the shootout, Pio Esposito and Bryan Cristante missed their spot-kicks, leading to Italy's 1-4 loss and their third consecutive World Cup absence. The four-time champions had previously missed the tournament after playoff defeats to Sweden and North Macedonia.

Coach Gennaro Gattuso leaves the field with his head bowed after Italy's loss to Bosnia & Herzegovina in the 2026 World Cup playoff final at Bilino Polje stadium, Zenica, Bosnia on 31/3/2026. Photo: AP

Following the devastating loss, coach Gennaro Gattuso praised his team's spirit despite being a man down. "I just spoke with the entire team", Gattuso stated. "I can only thank them; it's been a long time since I've seen the Italy national team play with such spirit. This is painful, but we must accept it. We could have scored a second goal but didn't. The players gave their all". The 48-year-old coach emphasized the need for self-reflection, urging against blaming the referee or external factors. "People want to see a national team fight for their colors, and today they did that", he added.

When questioned about his future after the 2026 World Cup disappointment, Gattuso was unequivocal. "My future with Italy is no longer important right now", he asserted. "Today is not the time to talk about me. What hurts more is seeing this group not get what they deserve". This defeat further highlights the ongoing challenges facing Italian football, coming shortly after Serie A clubs also exited the Champions League early. Gattuso acknowledged the broader struggles: "We all know Italian football has faced difficulties for many years, but I am not the right person to provide solutions".

Coach Gennaro Gattuso reacts during the match. Photo: AP

Gattuso was appointed coach of the Italy national team in 6/2025, replacing Luciano Spalletti, on a contract extending until the end of the 2026 World Cup. The agreement included an automatic extension clause until 2028 if Italy qualified for the tournament in North America. Despite the setback, Italian Football Federation president Gabriele Gravina expressed his support for Gattuso, suggesting he continue leading the team. However, Gravina's own position is now under scrutiny following a series of World Cup qualifying failures since taking office in 2018.

Gianluigi Buffon, the legendary goalkeeper and current technical coordinator for the national team, indicated that the coaching staff might remain until June. This period would allow the Federation time for evaluation and to make a considered decision. "This is a sensitive time; we need time to make the right choice", said the former Juventus and PSG goalkeeper. "The season ends in June, and until then, we will continue to support the Federation".

Hong Duy (according to Football Italy)