Italy edge closer to long-awaited World Cup return with decisive play-off win
Bergamo: Four-time champions Italy national football team moved a step closer to ending their long FIFA World Cup absence with a commanding 2-0 victory over Northern Ireland national football team in the play-off semi-final at Bergamo, Italy.
Italy, seeking their first World Cup appearance since 2014, broke stubborn resistance midway through the second half when Sandro Tonali unleashed a thunderous strike from the edge of the area in the 56th minute.
The goal eased mounting tension before Moise Kean sealed the result with 10 minutes remaining, guiding a clinical finish off the inside of the post.
Despite the defeat, Northern Ireland — boasting one of the youngest squads in their history — showed resilience but failed to seriously test Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. Italy, under pressure to avoid missing a third consecutive World Cup, ultimately capitalised on their experience and attacking quality.
The victory sends Italy into a decisive play-off final away to Bosnia and Herzegovina national football team. The winner will secure a place in Group B alongside co-hosts Canada, Switzerland and Qatar at the 2026 tournament.
Bosnia stun Wales; Czech Republic break Irish hearts
Bosnia reached the final after edging past Wales national football team on penalties following a 1-1 draw in Cardiff. Veteran striker Edin Džeko forced extra time with a late header before Bosnia held their nerve in the shootout.
Elsewhere, the Czech Republic national football team defeated the Republic of Ireland national football team 4-3 on penalties in Prague. Jan Kliment converted the decisive spot-kick after a dramatic contest that saw Ireland surrender a two-goal advantage.
With the play-off picture narrowing, Italy now stand just one victory away from returning to football’s biggest stage — a comeback their fans have awaited for more than a decade.
Source: BBC sports
