Now against a fearful opponent: Italy trembles for the European Championship
Italy is once again fearing for its national team. After missing out on two World Cups, the reigning European soccer champions must now fear that they will also miss out on next year's European Championships in Germany. On Friday, they will face North Macedonia - North Macedonia of all countries - in what is likely to be the decisive match at the Olympic Stadium in Rome (20:45).
Although the small Balkan country is only ranked 66th in the FIFA world rankings, it is almost something of a fearful opponent for Italy. In qualifying for the World Cup in Qatar, the Azzurri were ultimately defeated by North Macedonia - with a 1-0 loss at home. So far, there has only been one win in four games. "Fear? It only drives us on," said Italy coach Luciano Spalletti with an air of calm.
On Monday evening, they will face their closest rivals, Ukraine, in the very last matchday of Group C (20:45). League leaders England have already secured their place in the European Championship. "Another 180 minutes until we know Italy's fate," wrote the "Gazzetta dello Sport".
Last defeat in England
After all, Spalletti's side still have it in their own hands. After the recent 3-1 defeat to England at Wembley, Italy are on ten points, Ukraine on 13, but have one game in hand. If the Azzurri manage a win against North Macedonia, a draw on Monday will be enough.
Otherwise, they would need a three-pointer to secure qualification. Ukraine actually have the right to play at home - but due to Russia's war against its neighbor, the game will be played in Leverkusen.
Spalletti, who led SSC Napoli to the Seria A title last season after more than 30 years, and his team are now under considerable pressure. However, the 64-year-old is nonchalant at the training camp in Florence. "A win in the first game would be a nice advantage in the second game," he commented laconically on the situation.
One detour left
If necessary, there would still be a detour via the Nations League play-offs next March. Three more tickets would then be up for grabs. However, the Italians want to avoid this if possible. Despite the difficult situation, Spalletti has also nominated two newcomers for the team: Andrea Colpani (24) from Monza and Andrea Cambiaso (23) from Juventus Turin.
The Italians will have to do without one of their young stars: Sandro Tonali, who moved from AC Milan to Premier League club Newcastle United for more than 63 million euros in the summer. The 23-year-old has been banned from national and international soccer for ten months due to his involvement in the latest betting scandal in Italian soccer.
Tonali had admitted to betting on AC Milan matches. If the Azzurri qualify, the young star would therefore not be able to take part in next year's European Championship in Germany.
Italy's qualification for EM 2024 hangs in the balance, especially after their loss to North Macedonia during the World Cup qualifiers. A win against North Macedonia on Friday will increase their chances, as a draw against Ukraine on Monday would secure their spot.
For Italy, facing North Macedonia in the upcoming Euro 2024 qualifier is a significant challenge, given their past encounter in the World Cup qualifiers ended in a 1-0 loss at home.
Source: www.dpa.com
