The European Champions Italy have failed to qualify for the world cup since 2018. The victory of North Macedonia marks the exit of Italy for the second time from the tournament. North Macedonia defeated the Azzurri 1-0 in their playoff semifinal, thanks to a last-gasp goal by Aleksandar Trajkovski.
Italy had 32 shots on goal, while its competitor only had four. But it was Trajkovski’s attempt from outside the box that made the difference as defenders closed in on him. After a fully prominent execution by Italy, which missed a number of opportunities and had numerous others saved by visiting goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski, it was North Macedonia’s lone serious chance. However, much like five years ago, Italy’s players slumped to the ground in astonishment and disappointment after the final whistle; with several of them crying, as the opposition celebrated enthusiastically.
Italy also missed out on the 2018 World Cup after losing a two-legged playoff to Sweden in November. Missing two World Cups in a row is an all-time low for the four-time champion, especially so soon after winning Euro 2020.
North Macedonia will face Portugal on Tuesday
“I’m proud of my teammates, we are all destroyed and broken but we have to start again,” Italy captain Giorgio Chiellini said. “At the moment it’s difficult to talk about it, it will remain a great hole. “I hope that the coach will stay because he is essential for this team. Now we have to return to winning, go to the Euros, and in four years’ time return to this blessed World Cup,” he added.
After Cristiano Ronaldo‘s team defeated Turkey 3-1; North Macedonia will face Portugal on Tuesday for a place in the tournament in Qatar. North Macedonia has qualified for only one crucial tournament: Euro 2020. Mancini was without a number of players who enabled Italy to win the European Championship last summer and had to field a patchwork defense. However, North Macedonia was rarely troubled until the very end. Italy made a sharp start, but they were incapable of breaking through the red-shirted wall.