The Italy national football team have suffered a stunning exit from World Cup qualification after losing 4-1 on penalties to the Bosnia and Herzegovina national football team in Zenica, marking their third consecutive absence from the global tournament.
Italy made a bright start to the match, taking the lead in the 15th minute through Moise Kean, who capitalised on a costly mistake by Bosnia goalkeeper Nikola Vasilj to slot home and give the visitors an early advantage.
However, the momentum shifted dramatically just before halftime when defender Alessandro Bastoni was shown a straight red card for a last-man challenge, leaving Italy to play the remainder of the game with ten men.
Bosnia took advantage of their numerical superiority and mounted sustained pressure in the second half. Their persistence paid off in the 79th minute when Haris Tabaković reacted quickest to a rebound following a brilliant save by Gianluigi Donnarumma, bringing the score level at 1-1.
Despite a spirited effort from Italy in extra time, neither side was able to find a winner, sending the match into a penalty shootout. From the spot, Italy faltered badly, with only Sandro Tonali converting. Pio Esposito missed his attempt, while Bryan Cristante struck the crossbar.
Bosnia, on the other hand, were clinical, converting all their penalties. Esmir Bajraktarević sealed the victory with the decisive spot-kick, sparking jubilant celebrations among the home fans.
The defeat continues a troubling trend for Italy, who also failed to qualify for the 2018 and 2022 World Cups despite their rich history as four-time champions. The result underscores a period of decline for one of football’s traditional powerhouses.
For Bosnia and Herzegovina, the victory is historic, securing their return to the World Cup for the first time since 2014. Their qualification represents a major milestone and a moment of national pride.
At the tournament, Bosnia are set to compete in Group B alongside the Canada national football team, the Qatar national football team, and the Switzerland national football team.
As the countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup continues, Bosnia will look to build on this momentum, while Italy are left to reflect on another painful qualifying campaign.
