Goals: Tabakovic 79' - Kean 15'

Bosnia & Herzegovina started stronger than the four-time World Cup champions. The hosts initiated attacks vigorously from both flanks, frequently testing goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. However, in minute 15, they made a critical error, conceding a goal. Under pressure from Mateo Retegui, goalkeeper Nikola Vasilj was forced to make a low pass forward. Nicolo Barella intercepted this pass, then threaded a pass to Moise Kean, who curled a right-footed shot from 17 meters into the top corner.

Kean became the fourth player to score in six consecutive appearances for Italy, following Adolfo Balonceri in 1928, Gigi Riva in 1969, and Roberto Bettega in 1977.

Italy players celebrate their opening goal in the playoff match against hosts Bosnia & Herzegovina on the evening of 31/3. Photo: NA

After the early goal, Italy adopted a defensive counter-attacking strategy. However, despite holding an advantage, they unexpectedly created difficulties for themselves.

In minute 42, during an attempt to tackle Amar Memic, Alessandro Bastoni's early and mistimed tackle resulted in a direct red card. Coach Gennaro Gattuso was forced to strengthen the defense by bringing in center-back Federico Gatti for Retegui.

Bastoni (seated) receives a red card in the Bosnia & Herzegovina - Italy match on the evening of 31/3. Photo: EFE

Playing with one man down placed Italy under immense pressure. Even when presented with counter-attacking opportunities, the visiting team was consistently pushed back. In minute 79, Italy fans' fears were realized. Following a cross from the right wing, Edin Dzeko headed the ball, which Donnarumma failed to hold, allowing Haris Tabakovic to score from close range, leveling the score at 1-1.

If not for Donnarumma's excellent performance, the match could have concluded earlier with a Bosnia & Herzegovina victory. In minute 87, Donnarumma made a crucial save right on the goal line after a header from Ermedin Demirovic.

The 1-1 draw after two regular halves forced both teams into two extra halves. In the penalty shootout, Italy only converted one penalty, scored by Sandro Tonali in the second round. Pio Esposito shot over the bar, while Bryan Cristante hit the crossbar in the first and third rounds. Meanwhile, Tahirovic, Tabakovic, Alajbegovic, and Bajrakterovic all converted their spot-kicks, securing a 4-1 victory for Bosnia & Herzegovina.

Bosnia & Herzegovina players celebrate their penalty shootout victory in the World Cup playoff match against Italy on the evening of 31/3. Photo: Reuters

Bosnia & Herzegovina qualified for the World Cup for the second time, their first appearance being in 2014. In contrast, Italy extended their crisis, having previously lost to Sweden and North Macedonia in playoff matches for the last two tournaments.