Italy can qualify for the World Cup, even after losing to Bosnia

Italy can qualify for the World Cup, even after losing to Bosnia

Italy may still have a very small and hypothetical chance of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, despite losing to Bosnia and Herzegovina in the play-offs.

The Azzurri were eliminated on penalties in Zenica, with Pio Esposito and Bryan Cristante missing from the spot while the Bosnians were perfect. This means Italy have failed to qualify for the World Cup for the third time in a row.

However, an unusual scenario could change everything.

It relates to the situation of Iran, which has been drawn in a group with Belgium, Egypt and New Zealand.

Due to ongoing tensions and the political situation in the Middle East, there have been statements that Iran may not participate in the tournament.

According to FIFA, in the event of a team’s withdrawal, the regulations stipulate that it be replaced by an alternative team – usually the runner-up of the respective “play-off” or the highest-ranked team that did not qualify.

In this case, the most likely place for Iran would be taken by the United Arab Emirates national team, which reached the Asian play-offs. However, FIFA has the right to make the final decision at its discretion.

This has also opened up the theoretical possibility that another team with a high global ranking could be selected – and Italy is among the highest-ranked teams not to have qualified.

The idea has also been mentioned by Rene Meulensteen, Iraq’s assistant coach, who suggested that if FIFA decides otherwise, they could invite a team like Italy.

However, this scenario remains highly unlikely and would cause great controversy, especially from other confederations, as it would mean the inclusion of an additional European team outside the normal qualification process.

So, although theoretically there is a “small door” for Italy, in practice the chances are minimal and depend on extraordinary developments outside the football field./Express newspaper/