World Cup 2026 Play-offs: Italy is in serious danger!

After the final matchday of the regular season in the Belgian Pro League, which had football fans on the edge of their seats this weekend, it's time for the international break! However, not every nation will enjoy as peaceful a schedule as our Red Devils.

Whilst Belgium head to the United States for two friendly matches — first against the host nation, then Mexico — to get a feel for where they'll be spending their summer, other countries are fighting for their last chance at qualification for the World Cup 2026.

The European play-offs will notably involve Italy, despite them being reigning European champions since winning Euro 2020. Belgian online betting site GoldenVegas Sport explains why the Squadra Azzurra find themselves in serious danger ahead of the upcoming Football World Cup.

No World Cup since 2014

Sadly for them, this is no longer a surprise. And this play-off ordeal threatens to bring back painful nightmares for the Italians. The fact is, Italy have not played at a Football World Cup since 2014, where they were already disappointing, crashing out in the group stage — just as they had done in 2010.

The 2006 world champions were knocked out in the play-offs in 2018 by Sweden, then four years later by modest North Macedonia. Will they finally manage to book their ticket to the edition hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada?

To achieve that goal, Gennaro Gattuso's men must first overcome the challenge posed by Northern Ireland in a play-off game to be played in Bergamo — a home advantage that could prove crucial.

*Odds are subject to change. Event ends: 26th March at 20:45.

A road to calvary towards the World Cup

For the most important international match the national side has faced in 12 years, two key players are doubtful. Gianluca Scamacca and Alessandro Bastoni have been called up but are both carrying injuries and remain uncertain starters.

"They will report to the squad and make a decision based on their physical condition," said the manager, without offering much reassurance to football fans and supporters.

Beating Northern Ireland will not be enough. Should they win, they will need to claim victory in one final match four days later — either against Wales or Bosnia-Herzegovina, who face each other in the other European play-off semi-final, which is already shaping up to be a fascinating tie.

*Odds are subject to change. Event ends: 26th March at 20:45.

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