Italy Miss Out on World Cup After Playoff Defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina

• Italy fail to qualify for a third consecutive World Cup after playoff loss
• Bosnia and Herzegovina progress following penalty shootout victory
• Defeat raises further questions over Italy’s long term direction

Italy will miss a third successive World Cup after a playoff final defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina in Zenica.

Italy took an early lead through Moise Kean, but the match turned before half time when Alessandro Bastoni was sent off. Bosnia equalised late in the second half through Haris Tabaković, forcing extra time with Italy reduced to ten men.

Neither side found a winner in the additional period, and the tie was decided on penalties. Misses from Pio Esposito and Bryan Cristante proved costly, with Esmir Bajraktarević converting the decisive kick to send Bosnia through.

The result marks an unprecedented low point for Italy, who become the first former champions to miss three consecutive World Cups. Their last appearance at the tournament came in 2014, despite winning the European Championship in 2021.

Head coach Gennaro Gattuso, appointed during a difficult period for the national side, acknowledged the disappointment but avoided discussing his future. The defeat is likely to intensify scrutiny on the direction of the team, which has struggled to regain consistency in recent qualification campaigns.

Bosnia will now prepare for their second World Cup appearance, having previously featured in 2014. They have been drawn in a group alongside Canada, Qatar and Switzerland.

Elsewhere in the playoffs, Sweden, Türkiye and Czechia also secured qualification, completing the final European places at the tournament.

WRITTEN BY

Hailey

Hailey Russell is a football journalist and former Division 1 collegiate athlete in the United States, bringing a unique blend of elite playing experience and professional insight to her work. Currently competing at the professional level in Europe, Hailey combines first-hand knowledge of the modern game with sharp analysis across match reports, player development, and tactical breakdowns.