Italy’s Tense Moment Ahead of World Cup Qualifying Playoffs
ROME — Coach Gennaro Gattuso expressed that anyone who doesn’t feel nervous during Italy’s quest to secure a spot in a third consecutive World Cup is “someone without blood running through their veins.”
Gattuso maintains the same fiery spirit he had as a player when he was part of the Italian team that clinched the nation’s fourth World Cup in 2006. With a crucial playoff match against Northern Ireland approaching on Thursday, he hinted at significant changes, including sending talented winger Federico Chiesa back home, which might signify a break from the standout player from the EU Championship five years ago.
“There’s definitely a sense of nervousness,” Gattuso remarked on Monday. “Only someone who doesn’t possess blood running through their veins wouldn’t experience it. However, we need to focus on spreading positive energy.”
While positivity is the mantra, Italy’s track record in the previous two World Cup playoffs has been anything but reassuring, with the Azzurri facing early exits against Sweden and North Macedonia. The team is under pressure after suffering two defeats to Norway in qualifying matches and must secure victories against Northern Ireland and either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina to avoid a 16-year World Cup absence.
“There are no excuses,” Gattuso emphasized. “Focusing on past glories like our four World Cups and two Euros won’t aid us. The only match that matters now is Thursday’s. Every player here recognizes what’s at stake and its significance.”
Chiesa’s return to the national team was brief, as he was sent back to Liverpool due to minor physical issues, a decision Gattuso deemed sensible. He replaced Chiesa with Bologna winger Nicolò Cambiaghi.
As Italy prepares for the playoffs, Gattuso sought to build team unity despite not being able to secure a training camp since the team’s last match. Instead, he embarked on a tour across Italy and beyond to foster team spirit through shared meals and camaraderie. Gattuso’s strategic choice of playing in Bergamo’s stadium is aimed at creating a more supportive environment, differing from the earlier atmosphere at the San Siro, which may have impacted the players adversely.
With Italy’s sporting legacy steadily evolving and recent successes in other fields boosting national pride, Gattuso believes the team has a solid chance to achieve their World Cup aspirations. If Italy qualifies, they will be grouped with Canada, Qatar, and Switzerland.
Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.
