Italy's World Cup debut: Cricket team on the rise as storied soccer team falters

Italy is finally heading to the World Cup — just not in the sport most people might expect. Amid dark times for the country’s ...
Newsday

Italy has to beat Northern Ireland then Wales or Bosnia to return to the World Cup

ZURICH — Italy was stopped by Sweden from getting to the 2018 World Cup. It was North Macedonia in 2022. Now it is Northern Ireland's turn. Four-time World Cup winner Italy is back in the qualifying ...
The New York Times

How World Cup 2026 play-off draws played out as Italy drew Northern Ireland, Wales to face Bosnia & Herzegovina

The paths for the teams in the 2026 World Cup play-offs have been laid out after today's draws. The inter-confederation draw has plotted Jamaica against New Caledonia and Bolivia against Suriname — ...
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How World Cup qualifying works: Explaining rules, format and how to earn a spot at FIFA tournament

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup set to be the most expansive edition to date, qualifying for the competition has taken on a new look. Across the nearly 100 years of this iconic competition, qualifying ...