The desperation gripping the Italian national team is palpable after the playoff draw paired them with Northern Ireland. For Italy, this is not just about qualifying; it’s about avoiding a catastrophic historical failure of missing a third consecutive World Cup, a fear that drives their campaign.
Coach Gennaro Gattuso’s team is under immense internal and external pressure to win their semi-final against Northern Ireland at home. The psychological weight of their shock elimination in the last playoff cycle against North Macedonia is a constant shadow.
Northern Ireland’s role is to exploit this desperation, knowing that every moment the game remains 0-0, the pressure on the Azzurri will intensify. Should Italy win, they then face the hostile prospect of an away final against Wales in Cardiff.
Meanwhile, the Republic of Ireland faces the Czech Republic in Prague, while Wales hosts Bosnia & Herzegovina. For Italy, the playoff is a fight for redemption and survival, making Northern Ireland’s task slightly easier psychologically.