Italy’s path to the 2018 and 2022 World Cups was blocked, first by Sweden and then by North Macedonia. Now, Northern Ireland stands in their way as Italy vies for a spot in the upcoming tournament. This marks the third consecutive year that the four-time World Cup champions find themselves in qualifying playoffs, following FIFA’s recent draw that offers them a chance to return to soccer’s grandest stage after a remarkable 12-year absence.
Italy will start this playoff campaign by hosting Northern Ireland in a one-off match on March 26. The victor will then go on to compete against either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina for a coveted place in the first-ever 48-team World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
Northern Ireland is expected to provide a challenge reminiscent of North Macedonia’s unexpected victory against Italy in March 2022, when they scored a last-minute goal in Palermo. Michael O’Neill, the Northern Ireland manager, recognized the pressure on Italy, saying, “They have obviously missed out on the last two World Cups. We have everything to gain in this situation.”
Italian coach Gennaro Gattuso, whose team suffered a 4-1 defeat to Norway recently, declined interview requests from the press, possibly reflecting the intensity of the situation.
In other playoff matches, Ukraine will face Sweden, with the winner set to meet either Poland or Albania. Despite challenges posed by Russia’s invasion, Ukraine is conducting its home games in Poland and could ultimately face the Polish national team.
Ukraine’s coach, Graham Potter, emphasized the pride of playing for one’s nation, highlighting the emotional aspects of the game. During the last playoff cycle, Ukraine knocked out Scotland before losing to Wales in the final qualifier.
Emerging football nation Kosovo will begin its inaugural World Cup journey with an away match against Slovakia, followed by games against either Turkey or Romania. Since gaining independence from Serbia in 2008 and joining UEFA and FIFA in 2016, Kosovo has been striving to make its mark.
Ireland’s Troy Parrott recently scored five goals, propelling the team to a playoff semi-final against the Czech Republic, with the winner facing either Denmark or North Macedonia. Denmark’s recent loss to Scotland has relegated them to the playoffs after a dramatic gameweek.
FIFA has also organized intercontinental playoffs, with Iraq needing to defeat either Bolivia or Suriname to advance, while Congo will face the winner of a match between New Caledonia and Jamaica. These playoffs will take place in Mexico from March 23 to 31.
Ultimately, six teams will qualify from these two sets of playoffs, adding to the 42 already determined from qualifiers across four continents. The World Cup draw is scheduled for December 5 at the Kennedy Center in Washington, with placeholder teams included for the playoffs.
Fan Take: This news is significant for soccer fans as Italy’s historical stature in the sport makes their potential absence from yet another World Cup a compelling narrative. The outcomes of these playoffs will not only shape the tournament landscape but will also resonate deeply with supporters who yearn for memorable moments and underdog stories in the beautiful game.
