Italy failed to qualify for the FIFA World Cup for a third consecutive time after losing 4-1 in a penalty shootout to Bosnia and Herzegovina in their playoff final, following a 1-1 draw.
The four-time champions have now suffered another playoff setback, extending their absence from the tournament since their last appearance in 2014.
Bosnia, whose only World Cup appearance also came in 2014, overcame their own history of playoff disappointments to secure a crucial win.
Italy made a strong start and took the lead in the 15th minute through Moise Kean. The goal came after a poor pass from Bosnia goalkeeper Nikola Vasilj allowed Nicolo Barella to set up Kean, who struck a powerful first-time shot from outside the box into the top corner. It was his eighth goal in his last six matches for Italy.
Bosnia responded quickly, creating several chances. Gianluigi Donnarumma made important saves to deny Ivan Basic and Nikola Katic as the hosts pushed forward.
The game turned just before halftime when Italy went down to 10 men. Alessandro Bastoni was sent off in the 42nd minute for a late last-man challenge on Amir Memic, giving Bosnia momentum.
Bosnia continued to apply pressure and found an equalizer in the 79th minute. Substitute Haris Tabakovic, on the pitch for just seven minutes, scored from close range after Donnarumma saved Edin Dzeko’s header.
Dzeko was later seen with an ice pack on his shoulder before the shootout, but Bosnia remained composed from the spot. They converted all of their penalties, while Italy struggled.
Pio Esposito missed Italy’s first penalty, blasting it over the bar, and Bryan Cristante hit the crossbar with his attempt. Esmir Bajraktarevic then scored the final penalty to seal victory for Bosnia.
The match, played at Bilino Polje Stadium in Zenica, was fast-paced and intense throughout, with both sides creating chances in an open contest.
With this result, Italy’s FIFA World Cup drought continues, marking a third straight failure to qualify, while Bosnia celebrates a long-awaited breakthrough after years of playoff setbacks.
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