The stakes are massive for Italy as the Azzuris, having missed the last two World Cups, will take on a confident and dangerous looking Bosnia Herzegovina on 31st March in a final attempt to qualify for the FIFA World Cup 2026 at the Bilino Polje Stadium in Zeneca, Bosnia.
The winner of the contest will be placed in Group B of the FIFA World Cup comprising of Canada, Qatar and Switzerland.
Italy fell at the similar stage in 2018 and 2022 and will be looking to buck the trend and make it to the World Cup after they last appeared in 2014.
Bosnia Herzegovina too haven’t qualified since their maiden participation in 2014 and after their heroic victory on penalties against Wales in the semi-final of the Path A qualifiers, the Bosnians are looking a different side altogether . We should not forget that Bosnia’s first international victory came against Italy in Sarajevo, 30 years ago. The home team had defeated Italy 2-1 then.
It is certainly going to be a tough contest with Bosnia having the home advantage with a vociferous crowd backing them to the hilt.
Italy got the better of Northern Ireland in Bergamo to reach the Path A finals. The Azzuris with a strong team in Tonali, Kean, Locatelli, Retegui, Bastoni, the young sensation Esposito and of course their very experienced goalkeeper in Donnarumma will be the favourites without an iota of doubt. Also, Gattuso, the former Italian International and current Manager with loads of passion for his team has made Italy a tough outfit to beat.
It will not be easy for Bosnia and though they have the mighty experience of the 40 year old Edin Dzeko, the team on paper is a shade lighter than the Italians in terms of International experience and success.
It is Italy’s game to lose as the Azzuris prepare to book their place for the World Cup after 12 years.