Italy is striving to end a 12-year absence from the World Cup as one of football’s most storied nations prepares for the qualifying play-offs amid an ongoing identity crisis. On Thursday, Northern Ireland will visit Bergamo for a tense semi-final clash, with Italy desperate to avoid missing a third consecutive World Cup.
Under the leadership of Gennaro Gattuso, Italy secured second place in Group I, bringing some stability after the dismissal of the volatile Luciano Spalletti. However, two heavy defeats at the hands of group winners Norway highlighted the significant decline of the national team since their last World Cup triumph two decades ago, when Gattuso was a key midfielder.
Since that victory, Italy has failed to advance past the group stage in the 2010 and 2014 World Cups, and missed qualification entirely for the last two tournaments in Russia and Qatar. Both recent failures came through play-offs, deeply wounding a footballing powerhouse that has seen its confidence erode while rivals like France and Spain have prospered.
The disappointing performances of Italian clubs in this season’s Champions League have further fueled a sense of decline. Missing the upcoming World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico would be perceived as a devastating blow to the nation’s footballing prestige.
“I truly hope with all my heart that we can achieve this goal; this group of players deserves it,” Gattuso said on Monday. “We must avoid overburdening the players—they understand the stakes. There will be tension, but we need to maintain a positive atmosphere.”
In addition to the pressure, Gattuso faces a series of injuries that could sideline key players for the crucial matches. Should Italy overcome Northern Ireland, they will face either Wales or Bosnia-Herzegovina in the final.
A major concern is Sandro Tonali, who sustained a groin injury during Newcastle United’s Champions League exit against Barcelona last week. Gattuso expressed hope that Tonali, a dynamic midfielder, would be available for training before Thursday’s game, though his starting position remains uncertain.
Federico Chiesa, absent from Italy’s squad since their disappointing 2024 European Championship defense, was withdrawn on Monday after medical staff deemed him unfit. Originally named in the 28-man squad, Chiesa decided to return home, a choice Gattuso accepted without pressure. Nicolo Cambiaghi of Bologna was called up as his replacement.
Meanwhile, Atalanta striker Gianluca Scamacca and central defenders Alessandro Bastoni and Gianluca Mancini are all working to recover in time. Arsenal defender Riccardo Calafiori also reported discomfort upon arriving at the Coverciano training center.
Gattuso now hopes for an injury-free match on Thursday and that his squad will be fully prepared for what could be a decisive step toward World Cup qualification.
