‘The World Cup curse’: Outcry as Italy miss out for third time in a row

Italy has failed to qualify for the FIFA World Cup for the third consecutive time after losing a playoff match to Bosnia and Herzegovina on March 31, 2026. The loss, decided by a 4-1 penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw, sparked anger and disillusionment across the football-mad country. Italy last qualified for the World Cup in 2014. The defeat has led to calls for rebuilding Italian football and for the football federation boss to step down. Bosnia and Herzegovina will now participate in the World Cup, joining Canada, Qatar, and Switzerland in Group B.

Italy failed to qualify for the FIFA World Cup for the third consecutive time after losing to Bosnia and Herzegovina in a penalty shootout on Tuesday in Zenica. The defeat sparked widespread disappointment and criticism across Italian society and politics. Many Italians are lamenting the decline of their national team since winning the World Cup in 2006, with the exception of their Euro 2021 victory. Critics point to deeper issues within Italian football, including corruption, lack of investment in youth development, and a preference for foreign players. The failure has led to calls for resignations and a renewed focus on developing young Italian talent.