Italy national football team will miss a third consecutive FIFA World Cup after a dramatic 4–1 penalty shootout defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina national football team in their qualification play-off final.
The match, played in Bilino Polje Stadium, saw Italy take an early lead through Moise Kean, before being reduced to 10 men following the sending off of Alessandro Bastoni just before halftime.
Bosnia equalized late through Haris Tabakovic, forcing extra time and eventually penalties. Esmir Bajraktarevic sealed victory with the decisive spot-kick after Italy missed key penalties, including efforts from Pio Esposito and Bryan Cristante.
The result marks a historic low for the four-time world champions, who become the first former winners to miss three consecutive World Cups.
Meanwhile, Bosnia and Herzegovina celebrate a return to the global stage, qualifying for their first World Cup since 2014 and booking a spot in a group alongside Canada, Switzerland, and Qatar.
