Italy Misses World Cup Again After Losing To Bosnia In Shootout

Italy, the four-time World Cup winners, will miss the 2026 World Cup again after losing to Bosnia-Herzegovina in a penalty shootout. This is the third World Cup in a row that Italy will not participate in. Bosnia, ranked 65th in the world, earned the final spot in Group B and will play against co-host Canada in their opening match on June 12 in Toronto.

Italy had an early lead with a goal by Moise Kean in the 15th minute, but a red card for defender Alessandro Bastoni late in the first half left them with ten players. Bosnia equalized in the 79th minute with Haris Tabakovic’s goal. After 30 minutes of extra time with no further goals, Bosnia won 4-1 in the penalty shootout.

Italy last missed the World Cup in 2014, 2018, and 2022. They struggled in the European qualifying group and lost matches against Norway. Now, Italy becomes the first multi-time World Cup champion to miss three consecutive tournaments.

For Canadian fans, Italy’s absence might improve Canada’s chances. Ranked 30th in the world, Canada will face Bosnia, Switzerland, and Qatar in Group B. With home games in Toronto and Vancouver and a new format allowing some third-place teams to advance, Canada has a good chance to reach the knockout stage for the first time.

Canada is still dealing with injuries. Alphonso Davies, their captain, has been out since March last year with an ACL injury. Other injured players include Alistair Johnston, Moise Bombito, Stephen Eustaquio, and Jacob Shaffelburg. Head coach Jesse Marsch used recent matches to test new players before finalizing the 26-man World Cup squad on May 30.

Goalkeeper Max Crepeau, who kept a clean sheet in Canada’s last game, warned that the World Cup will be very tough. “Every game is going to be a war,” he said. “Small mistakes can make a big difference, so we have to stay focused.”