Daijiworld Media Network - Zenica

Zenica, Apr 1: Four-time champions Italy national football team failed to qualify for a third consecutive FIFA World Cup after losing to Bosnia and Herzegovina national football team on penalties in their European qualifying playoff.

The match ended 1-1 after extra time, with Bosnia sealing a 4-1 win in the shootout in Zenica. Esmir Bajraktarevic converted the decisive penalty to send the hosts through to the FIFA World Cup 2026, where they will feature in Group B alongside Canada, Switzerland and Qatar.

Italy had taken an early lead through Moise Kean in the 15th minute, but their task became tougher after Alessandro Bastoni was sent off before half-time for a professional foul.

Bosnia equalised through Haris Tabakovic following sustained pressure, forcing the match into extra time and eventually penalties. Italy missed two spot-kicks, crashing out of the tournament and marking their third straight absence from the World Cup finals.

Italy’s last World Cup triumph came in 2006, when current manager Gennaro Gattuso was part of the squad.

In another playoff, Czechia national football team secured qualification after defeating Denmark national football team in a penalty shootout following a 2-2 draw in Prague.

Michal Sadilek scored the decisive penalty as Czechia booked their first World Cup appearance since 2006. They will compete in Group A alongside Mexico, South Africa and South Korea.

Earlier, Pavel Sulc gave the hosts an early lead, while Denmark equalised through Joachim Andersen. Czech skipper Ladislav Krejci restored the lead in extra time before substitute Kasper Hogh levelled again.

In the shootout, only Christian Eriksen scored for Denmark, as the Czech side held their nerve to advance.