Frustrated Italy fans streamed out of the San Siro, bracing for more World Cup playoff drama, after their team slumped to a humiliating 4-1 defeat against Norway on Sunday in their last qualifier.
Italy needed a nine-goal win to dislodge Norway from the top of Group ‘I’ and secure direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
It was an almost impossible task, but the Azzurri failed to clinch even a consolation victory as they suffered another bruising World Cup qualifying night.
The four-time world champions, who last lifted the trophy in 2006, now have to battle through the 16-team UEFA playoffs, which will determine the last four European nations to advance to the World Cup, in March if they are to avoid missing the
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