Italy was prevented by Sweden from qualifying for the 2018 World Cup, followed by North Macedonia stopping them in 2022. Now, Northern Ireland presents another challenge.
Four-time World Cup champion Italy is in the qualifying playoffs for the third consecutive time. The recent FIFA draw outlines a difficult journey aimed at ending a 12-year absence from soccer’s premier event.
Italy is set to host Northern Ireland on March 26 in a single-elimination match. The winner will go on to face either Wales or Bosnia-Herzegovina, with a coveted spot at the inaugural 48-team World Cup on the line, to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The Northern Irish present a challenge similar to North Macedonia, who withstood numerous attacks in Palermo in March 2022, ultimately scoring in stoppage time.
“There will be immense pressure on Italy, who have missed the last two World Cups. We have everything to gain in this situation,” stated Northern Ireland coach Michael O’Neill.
Italy’s coach, Gennaro Gattuso, whose team recently lost 4-1 to Norway in Milan, opted not to comment.
European playoff brackets
Three other European playoff brackets include Ukraine hosting Sweden, where the victor will meet Poland or Albania. Ukraine conducted its qualifying group home matches in three separate Polish cities while facing military conflict from Russia.
Newly appointed Sweden coach Graham Potter mentioned, “We are playing a proud, strong football nation. Emotion will play a crucial role during the game.”
In a significant moment, Kosovo, Europe’s newest footballing nation, aims for its first World Cup, facing Slovakia, followed by a potential home match against Turkey or Romania.
Ireland’s impressive back-to-back victories against Portugal and Hungary, courtesy of all five goals from Troy Parrott, have led to a playoff matchup with the Czech Republic, where the winner will next face Denmark or North Macedonia.
The World Cup draw is scheduled for December 5 at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., where the playoff teams will be selected. A total of six teams will join the already confirmed 42 World Cup participants.
