Gennaro Gattuso has reacted to Italy’s disappointing failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking another major setback for the four-time champions.
Italy’s hopes were dashed after a tense playoff final defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina, decided by a penalty shootout at Stadion Bilino Polje on Tuesday.
The match ended 1-1 after extra time, but the Azzurri struggled from the spot, losing 4-1 in the shootout. Substitute players Pio Esposito and Bryan Cristante both missed their penalties, sealing Italy’s exit.
The game took a difficult turn before halftime when Alessandro Bastoni was sent off for a last-man foul, leaving Italy with ten players for much of the contest.
Despite the setback, Italy had taken an early lead through Moise Kean, who found the net within the opening 15 minutes.
Goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma played a standout role, producing nine key saves to keep Italy in the game throughout regular time.
However, Bosnia eventually broke through in the 79th minute when Haris Tabakovic converted a rebound after Edin Dzeko had his header saved from a corner.
Even with the numerical advantage, Bosnia could not find another goal during extra time. The match was ultimately decided on penalties, sending them through to the World Cup for the first time since 2014.
Speaking after the match, Gattuso reflected on the team’s effort and the pain of missing out:
“These guys really worked hard, cared a lot, and showed real determination, and they didn’t get the recognition they deserved.
“We had three chances, and most of their crosses were just barely brushing us. I am still proud of my lads. If you stab me with a dagger today, nothing will come out, my blood is all gone. It was important for the Italian football movement and it’s sad to have to leave like this.
“I don’t want to talk about the referee or anything else, but today’s game is fair, this is football. I’ve been in football for many years, I’ve celebrated and I’ve been thumped, like today, but it’s hard to swallow this.
“I was also surprised by how much heart and determination they showed today. We were there during a siege, in the trenches yet here we are still discussing how to make it to the World Cup again.
“I personally apologize for not being able to make it, but these players gave everything they had.”
When asked about his future as head coach, Gattuso declined to focus on himself:
“I think talking about my future right now isn’t important. What mattered most was going to the World Cup. We take the performance, but it hurts. We’re disappointed.”
