Italy Aims to End 12-Year World Cup Absence in Qualifying Play-Offs Amid Identity Crisis

Italy Aims to End 12-Year Cup Absence as They Face Northern Ireland

Italy, one of the world’s top footballing nations, is set to return to the World Cup qualifying play-offs after an absence of 12 years. The team, currently under coach Gennaro Gattuso, faces Northern Ireland in a tense semi-final on Thursday.

Gattuso took over from the sacked Luciano Spalletti and led Italy to second place in Group I. However, recent losses to Norway have highlighted the team’s decline since their last World Cup win 20 years ago.

Italy has not played in a knockout match of the World Cup finals since being eliminated in the group stage in 2010 and again in 2014. Their failure to qualify for the play-offs in Russia and Qatar further fueled concerns about the team’s performance and national pride.

Coach Gattuso expressed his hope for Italy’s return, emphasizing the players’ determination and the importance of maintaining a positive atmosphere despite the pressure.

Injuries pose a significant challenge for Gattuso, who must manage both the high stakes of the occasion and potential absences due to injuries. Sandro Tonali is doubtful after suffering a groin injury in a Champions League match, while Federico Chiesa was ruled out following selection in Gattuso’s 28-man squad.

Other players like Gianluca Scamacca, Alessandro Bastoni, and Riccardo Calafiori are also dealing with injuries. Despite these setbacks, Gattuso remains optimistic about a successful Thursday match and the possibility of reaching the final against Wales or Bosnia-Herzegovina.