In case Italy should miss the World Cup, national coach Gennaro Gattuso is already planning his escape. At least that’s how he jokes.
The proud football nation Italy is once again worried about World Cup participation – and national coach Gennaro Gattuso is already joking about the personal consequences of the next debacle.
“If I fail, I will have to leave Italy and move abroad,” said the 47-year-old about the expectations of Italian fans after the 3-0 (1-0) victory against Israel on Tuesday evening.
Because the situation remains tense. Norway (18 points) is in first place in World Cup qualification Group I, which is the only spot that brings the direct ticket to the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Italy (15) at least solidified second place with the victory over pursuer Israel (9), which qualifies for the play-offs.
The Italians maintained with two victories on the last two matchdays the remaining chance to still catch Norway in the remaining two matches. The previously flawless Scandinavians have six wins from six games. The play-offs, however, don’t awaken good memories: The Squadra Azzurra missed participation in the 2018 and 2022 World Cups there each time.