Fans left the San Siro disheartened on Monday following Italy’s disappointing 4-1 defeat against Norway in a vital World Cup qualifier. The loss has intensified anxieties as Italy faces the prospect of missing the World Cup for the third consecutive time since their last victory in 2006.
To qualify directly for the 2026 World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Italy needed to achieve an astonishing nine-goal victory, a feat that proved unattainable. This latest setback adds to a troubling pattern for the Azzurri, pushing them into the playoff rounds in March. The team’s struggles to qualify come on the heels of a previous loss to Norway in June, which led to the firing of coach Luciano Spalletti and the subsequent appointment of Gennaro Gattuso.
Fans have voiced significant concerns about the future of their national team, particularly the younger generation who have yet to experience watching Italy in a World Cup. Luca Raggi, a dismayed supporter, articulated this sentiment, saying, “It would be depressing to watch a third straight World Cup without Italy,” echoing a widespread heartbreak among fans who remember Italy’s glorious campaigns in 1982, 1994, and 2006.
Despite the team’s struggles, goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma remains a standout performer, offering a glimmer of hope amid the turmoil. Older fans reflect on Italy’s decline compared to rival nations better at cultivating young talent. Journalist Andrea Saronni has noted that players from other countries seem to regard national team selection as an honor, a mindset that appears to be diminishing among Italian players.
Italy’s situation is not unique; other traditional football powerhouses like Brazil and the United States are also undergoing transformations as they look to recapture their former glory on the World Cup stage. As Italy prepares for its playoff challenges, there remains a flicker of optimism among fans and players that they can rise to the occasion. The unwavering support from dedicated fans will play a crucial role as the team endeavors to reclaim its elite status in international football.