Again, Italy miss out on World Cup as Bosnia, Turkey, Sweden qualify

Italy failed to qualify for a third consecutive FIFA World Cup after losing on penalties to Bosnia and Herzegovina in a dramatic play-off on Tuesday, while Turkey, Sweden, and the Czech Republic secured qualification for the tournament to be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Four-time champions Italy suffered heartbreak after Bosnia triumphed 4-1 in a penalty shoot-out following a 1-1 draw after extra time in Zenica.

Moise Kean had given Italy an early lead, but their chances were dented when Alessandro Bastoni was sent off before halftime. Haris Tabakovic later equalised to force penalties, where Bosnia held their nerve to seal qualification.

Ranked 66th globally, Bosnia reached the finals for only the second time in their history, having previously appeared in 2014. They will compete in Group B alongside Canada, Qatar, and Switzerland.

DR Congo beat Jamaica to qualify for first World Cup in 52 years

Elsewhere, Turkey booked their return to the World Cup for the first time since 2002 after a 1-0 victory over Kosovo, courtesy of Kerem Akturkoglu’s second-half strike. They will face the United States, Paraguay, and Australia in Group D.

Sweden also secured qualification after edging Poland 3-2, with Viktor Gyokeres scoring a late winner. They will compete in Group F against the Netherlands, Japan, and Tunisia.

Czech Republic completed the list of qualifiers after defeating Denmark on penalties, setting up Group A clashes with South Africa, South Korea, and Mexico.

The Star