Italy’s World Cup Agony Continues After Shootout Heartbreak Against Bosnia

Italy’s World Cup nightmare has deepened as they crashed out of contention for a third consecutive tournament, falling to Bosnia and Herzegovina in a dramatic qualification play-off final.

The Azzurri’s hopes of reaching this summer’s competition in North America were dashed by a 4-1 penalty shootout defeat.

Esmir Bajraktarevic netted the decisive spot-kick in Zenica, securing Bosnia’s place in Group B alongside co-hosts Canada, Switzerland, and Qatar, and plunging Italy into further despair.

Four-time world champions Italy initially took the lead through Moise Kean in the 15th minute. However, they subsequently buckled under the immense pressure, particularly after being reduced to ten men for over half the match.

Alessandro Bastoni’s dismissal for a cynical challenge on Amar Memic four minutes before half-time left Italy firmly on the back foot. Haris Tabakovic then poked home Bosnia’s deserved equaliser in the 79th minute, forcing extra time.

Italy’s World Cup horror show continued in the ensuing shootout. Pio Esposito blazed their first penalty over the bar, and when Bryan Cristante struck the crossbar, Bajraktarevic’s effort squeezed under Gianluigi Donnarumma, sealing Italy’s fate.

“I don’t think the lads deserved to suffer such a blow, for the performance, the effort, and the heart that they showed tonight… I’m proud of the boys,” said a dejected Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso. “It’s difficult to digest.”

Gattuso downplayed discussions about his future, but reflections from the Italian Football Federation are inevitable. Italy now hold the unenviable record of being the first World Cup winners to miss three consecutive editions of the tournament, which this year will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. This also marks their third successive play-off elimination, following defeats to Sweden in 2018 and North Macedonia four years ago.

Meanwhile, Bosnia celebrated reaching their second World Cup finals, and first since 2014, with passionate fans invading the pitch after their historic victory. Some Italy players had been filmed celebrating when Bosnia won their semi-final, also on penalties, against Wales – a premature display that now looks remarkably foolish given Bosnia’s subsequent dominance.