Italy kicked off their 2026 World Cup qualifying with a 2-0 victory over Moldova on Monday, marking a bittersweet moment as Luciano Spalletti's final game in charge.
Giacomo Raspadori and Andrea Cambiaso netted one goal each, but the Azzurri still find themselves third in Group I, nine points adrift of leaders Norway despite playing two games fewer. Only the top spot guarantees a straight ticket to the USA-Canada-Mexico finals in 2026; Italy now look set for the playoffs if they finish second.
That scenario carries its own risks. After missing out on the last two World Cups via playoff defeats, Italy is wrestling with an identity crisis following a disappointing European Championship defence last year.
Spalletti, who oversaw a last-16 exit at the Euros and suffered a 3-0 loss to Norway in the opening qualifier, was informed before kick-off that he would be relieved of his duties. "When you're the national team coach you have no excuses," he told Rai. "It's the coach who has to make the difference and unfortunately I wasn't able to do that."
Despite securing the needed three points, the performance in Reggio Emilia did little to inspire confidence. The flat atmosphere underscored a team in transition, facing questions over tactics and morale regardless of who steps in next.
Claudio Ranieri is widely tipped to replace Spalletti. The 73-year-old led Roma from the brink of relegation to a fifth-place Serie A finish last season and is currently consulting for the club's American owners. A media campaign is already urging "Sir" Ranieri to come out of retirement and steer Italy back on course.
With just months to turn around a faltering qualification campaign and reignite the passion of the Azzurri faithful, Italy's next chapter promises drama both on and off the pitch.
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Italy beat Moldova as troubled Spalletti era comes to an end
cgtn.com
