Italy head coach Gennaro Gattuso has expressed deep disappointment after the four-time world champions failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup following a playoff loss to Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The Azzurri were beaten 4-1 on penalties after a fiercely contested encounter at Stadion Bilino Polje in Zenica ended 1-1 after extra time. Substitute duo Pio Esposito and Bryan Cristante both failed from the spot, sealing Italy’s fate in the shootout.
Italy had taken an early lead through Moise Kean within the opening 15 minutes. However, their momentum was disrupted just before halftime when Alessandro Bastoni was sent off for a last-man challenge, reducing the team to 10 men.
Despite the setback, goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma delivered an outstanding performance, making nine crucial saves to keep Italy in the game. But Bosnia eventually found a breakthrough in the 79th minute when Haris Tabakovic converted a rebound after Edin Džeko’s header was initially denied.
Neither side could find a winner in extra time, but Bosnia held their nerve in the penalty shootout to secure qualification for the World Cup, marking their return to the global stage for the first time since 2014.
Reacting after the match, Gattuso praised his players’ effort but admitted the result was difficult to accept.
“These players gave everything, showed heart and determination, but didn’t get the reward they deserved,” he said. “It’s a painful moment for Italian football. I’m proud of them, but it’s hard to swallow.”
The former midfielder also declined to discuss his future, emphasizing that the team’s failure to qualify remained the most important issue.
“We’re disappointed. What mattered most was reaching the World Cup, and we fell short,” Gattuso added.