A wave of shock and immense disappointment has swept across Italy after its national football team, a four-time world champion, failed to qualify for the FIFA World Cup for the third consecutive edition. The Azzurri were defeated by Bosnia and Herzegovina in a tense penalty shootout, following a 1-1 draw after extra time.
Italy’s path in the qualifiers had begun with a victory over Northern Ireland in the semi-final. In the other semi-final, Bosnia and Herzegovina had caused an upset by beating Wales, also on penalties, the previous week. Images of Italian supporters celebrating this Bosnian victory, perceived as an advantage against an opponent deemed more approachable than Wales, had circulated, sparking indignation and motivating the Bosnians, who then prepared meticulously for the decisive confrontation.
In the crucial match, Italy had taken the lead with a goal from Moise Kean. However, the turning point occurred in the 41st minute with the expulsion of Alessandro Bastoni. Forced to play with ten men for more than half of regulation time and all of extra time, Italy succumbed to Bosnian pressure, and an equalizer from Smail Tabakovic led the match to a penalty shootout. Bryan Cristante and Pio Esposito missed their attempts, sealing Italy’s defeat with a 4-1 score in favor of Bosnia.
That evening also marked the elimination for other European nations, including Denmark (also on penalties), Poland, and Kosovo. Consequently, Czechoslovakia, Sweden, Turkey, and Bosnia and Herzegovina secured the last four European qualifying spots for the World Cup, leaving Italy and its supporters in bitter disappointment.