Italy to miss third straight World Cup after shoot-out defeat to Bosnia

Italy’s World Cup hopes evaporated in dramatic fashion as Bosnia and Herzegovina triumphed 4–1 on penalties in a gripping play‑off final on Tuesday. Esmir Bajraktarevic converted the decisive kick in Zenica, sending Bosnia into Group B alongside Canada, Switzerland and Qatar, while plunging the four‑time champions into yet another qualifying disaster.

Italy had struck first through Moise Kean after 15 minutes, but their night unravelled when Alessandro Bastoni was dismissed shortly before half‑time for a late challenge on Amar Memic. Bosnia grew in confidence and eventually equalised in the 79th minute, Haris Tabakovic prodding home a deserved leveller to force extra time.

The shootout quickly turned bleak for Italy: Pio Esposito blasted their opening penalty over, Bryan Cristante struck the bar, and Bajraktarevic’s low effort slipped beneath Gianluigi Donnarumma to seal the upset. Italy become the first former champions to miss three consecutive World Cups.