Match against Ukraine turns into a test of strength: Italy is threatened with the next shame in European Championship qualifying

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Italy is a proud football nation. The Squadra Azzurra has won the world title four times (1934, 1938, 1982 and 2006). She was recently conspicuous by her absence from the World Cup. She failed to qualify in both 2018 and 2022.

The wounds from last year have not yet healed properly and the next shame is already lurking. In the play-offs for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, the Italians lost 0-1 to North Macedonia. On Saturday evening they wanted to take revenge – and did not get further than a 1-1 draw against the Balkan country. No trace of liberation. After the shocking departure of coach Roberto Mancini (58), there will be no change for the time being. For example, Luciano Spalletti (64) did not envision his debut as national coach.

Yet he is already under pressure to take action. If the Italians lose to Ukraine on Tuesday (8:45 p.m.), direct qualification for the 2024 European Championship is still a long way away for the defending champion.

Then the gap to second place in qualifying group C would already be six points. And the Squadra Azzurra not only cannot afford to make any missteps in the last four games – one more than the competition – but would probably have to rely on help from their opponents. A scenario that must be avoided at all costs.

Even a draw would only improve the situation to a limited extent. Then they would still be three points behind the second-placed Ukrainians. And should perform in the remaining games as well. After all, Italy could also qualify through the Nations League. (beer)

Source : Blick