Is Italy In Peril For World Cup 2026? Spalletti's Firing Follows Disastrous Norway Match
Italy's national coach loses position following Norway's defeat
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Italian football's national coach Luciano Spalletti bites the dust following a crushing 0:3 defeat in the World Cup qualifier against Norway. The 66-year-old announced his resignation, leaving the dugout after the next game against Moldova on Monday night. The football association confirmed his relief from duties as national coach. Due to the disappointing results, Italy may not make it to the 2026 World Cup, marking the third consecutive missed World Cup for the Italians.
"I apologize. I would've stayed to try and turn things around," Spalletti said during a press conference. "But I accept the sacking due to the poor performance." He had a good rapport with the Association's President, Gabriele Gravina. "However, I must follow the Association's decision." After Monday's match, he will provide consent to terminate the contract. "I owe it to the Association that's backed me, even amid poor results."
The once-champion coach of SSC Napoli has been in charge of the national team since September 2023. Among the top candidates for his replacement are the current AS Roma coach Claudio Ranieri, who aged 73 wants to call it a day following the end of the season. Former AC Milan champion coach Stefano Pioli, is also being considered. Currently, at Al-Nassr FC in Saudi Arabia, Cristiano Ronaldo's club, Pioli tallies 59 years.
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According to sports newspaper "La Gazzetta dello Sport," the Italian team delivered a "humiliating performance" against Norway. The newspaper "La Repubblica" echoes the sentiment, calling the defeat a "humiliation." Unless a miraculous comeback occurs, playoffs in March seem "all but inevitable" with Italy already nine points behind Norway in the table.
Only the group winner advances directly to the next round. The runner-up must face the playoffs. Currently, Italy is at the bottom of their five-group table. Italy has missed the football World Cups in Russia and Qatar and now faces a repeat disappointment in the USA, Canada, and Mexico next year.
Source: ntv.de, tsi/dpa
- International Match
- World Cup Qualification
- Football
Background:
- Italy is in Group I alongside Norway, Estonia, and Moldova in the World Cup Qualifiers. The recent loss to Norway may impact their chances of qualifying.
- Teams that finish third in their group may enter the playoffs depending on their ranking against other third-place teams.
- Key matches like Italy vs Norway, Belgium vs Wales, and Croatia vs Czechia have affected the current standings.
With Italy's loss, any team facing crucial matches might be at risk of missing the World Cup. Teams like Italy, currently in a troublesome position, must deliver exceptional performance in their upcoming fixtures to secure a spot. Detailed standings and a complete points table from the UEFA qualifiers will offer a precise assessment of each team's chances.
"The community policy within the Italian Football Association should consider implementing vocational training programs for coaching staff, to foster better strategies and performances, as suggested by the disappointment following the 0:3 defeat against Norway in the World Cup qualifier."
"Post the World Cup qualifier disaster, it would be beneficial for the Italian community to invest in sports facilities and improve resources for youth football, allowing them to excel in sports like football, possibly future World Cup contenders."
