Italy’s Path to World Cup Qualification Miracle: What They Need to Succeed

Basio badr

ago 2 hours

Italy’s Path to World Cup Qualification Miracle: What They Need to Succeed

The Italy national football team faces a critical juncture in their journey towards FIFA World Cup 2026 qualification. Currently, they have secured a place in the qualification play-offs, but an incredible effort is needed to clinch the top position in Group I. With two remaining matches, Italy aims to leapfrog Norway, who currently leads the group.

Current Standings in Group I

As of the latest update, Italy sits in second place with 15 points from six matches. Their upcoming fixtures include:

Against Moldova: Scheduled for Thursday evening, October 14, 2025.
Against Norway: Set for Sunday, following the Moldova match.

Norway tops the group with 18 points, having also played six games. Israel trails in third place with nine points but cannot advance further due to matches played.

Path to Overcoming Norway

For Italy to surge past Norway, two scenarios must unfold, both involving a significant amount of luck:

Scenarios for Italy’s Success

If Norway drops points against Estonia in their own qualifier, Italy must secure victories in both remaining matches.
Should Norway win, Italy would still have the potential to tie on points. However, an unlikely surge in goal difference would be required.

Goal Difference Challenge

Currently, Norway boasts a remarkable goal difference of +26, while Italy’s stands at +10. For Italy to surpass Norway, they need to score at least 17 goals in their remaining games. This number could increase based on Estonia’s performance against Norway.

Management under coach Gennaro Gattuso emphasizes the importance of both winning and significantly increasing their goal tally over the next few days. The match against Norway becomes crucial in determining their World Cup fate.

Italy’s pursuit for World Cup qualification reflects their rich footballing heritage and desire to return to the world stage. Fans are hopeful that with determination and a bit of luck, the Azzurri can secure their spot in the tournament this summer.