Italy Misses 2026 World Cup After Bosnia Play-Off Loss

Italy were eliminated from 2026 World Cup qualification after a 1‑1 draw with Bosnia and Herzegovina in the play‑off final. The Azzurri took the lead through Moises Kean, but a red card for Alessandro Bastoni and Haris Tankovic’s equaliser sent the tie to extra‑time and penalties, where Bosnia converted all spot‑kicks while Pio Esposito and Bryan Cristante missed for Italy.

Italian newspapers erupted with headlines such as “Everyone out!” and “Tutti a Casa,” and manager Gennaro Gattuso said it was too early to discuss his future. Calls for sweeping changes and a reset of the national team were echoed by Gazzetta dello Sport, Corriere dello Sport and others.