Italy legend Alessandro Nesta gives his prediction for the World Cup play-off final against Bosnia, and stands with Alessandro Bastoni. ‘I simulated many times in my career.’

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The Azzurri took over 55 minutes to break Northern Ireland down in Bergamo during last night’s World Cup play-off semi-final.

They eventually ran out 2-0 winners thanks to goals from Sandro Tonali and Moise Kean, setting up the final showdown with Bosnia and Herzegovina on Tuesday evening in Zenica.

Nesta anxious as an Italy supporter

“I too got worried in the first half,” confessed Nesta on Sky Sport Italia.

“If the real qualities of the teams emerge, then it’s not even close for any of the teams involved in the play-offs, but the pressure of wearing the Italy jersey is different to representing Northern Ireland or Bosnia.

“The first half performance was down to the visible tension that the Azzurri were dealing with.”

Due to the draw, the play-off final will be played with Bosnia and Herzegovina as the hosts in a fiery atmosphere.

“We must be well aware that it’s going to be a lot tougher in Bosnia, both because we are away from home in front of their passionate fans, but also as Bosnia are a better team than Northern Ireland, who frankly didn’t impress me much.”

There were some doubts ahead of the semi-final that fans might continue jeering Bastoni, who has been targeted for insults since he confessed to simulation when getting Juventus player Pierre Kalulu sent off against Inter.

A few had also called for Bastoni to be frozen out of the Italy squad as punishment for this unsporting behaviour, but Nesta is having none of it.

“I have to congratulate Bastoni, because they really piled on him about that simulation, and despite not being at his best yesterday due to an injury, he played a great game.

“I always had a reputation for being a fair player, but I too simulated many times in my career. I’ll never lecture Bastoni on morality, he’s super in my eyes.

“Admittedly, he is less able to make the most of his attacking characteristics when playing centrally in a back three.”

Miralem Pjanic warns Italy that they will face ‘an infernal’ atmosphere when playing Bosnia and Herzegovina in the World Cup play-off. ‘Edin Dzeko remains the reference point.’

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The Azzurri swept Northern Ireland aside 2-0 to reach the World Cup play-off final, while Bosnia and Herzegovina beat Wales on penalties in Cardiff following the 1-1 draw and extra time.

They will now go head-to-head for a place at the tournament, kicking off at the Stadion Bilino Polje on Tuesday March 31 at 19.45 UK time.

Pjanic can’t wait for Bosnia vs. Italy

“Seeing as there have always been many Bosnian players in Italian football, they’ll all be happy with this match-up,” former Juventus and Roma man Pjanic told the Sky Sport Italia podcast.

“We needed shaking up and that victory over Wales brought confidence back, which is fundamental for us.”

Only one of the two nations will go through to participate in the World Cup in Canada, Mexico and the USA this summer.

“It is going to be a wonderful match between two teams who had really a very good qualifying campaign. Bosnia have finally rediscovered our self-esteem, it is a group that works hard, sacrifices itself on the field.

“The coach has done great work, both psychologically and tactically, with a strong sense of belonging.”

According to Pjanic, Italy are not going to be fully prepared for the atmosphere in Zenica on Tuesday, as it is a small and oppressive arena.

“There are on paper 11,000 seats, but I can assure you that when you are there, it feels more like 30,000. It’s quite an old stadium, even the dressing room is rustic, but opponents feel a bit uncomfortable when visiting.

“There is a lot of pressure and it feels like the fans are right there on the touchline. There also isn’t a proper VIP section, so even the authorities stand and sing with everyone else. It’s going to be an infernal noise from start to finish.”

While Italy know the Bosnian players well thanks to their time in Serie A, that goes both ways and they are familiar to each other.

“Italy are accustomed to playing at this level, with figures like Gennaro Gattuso, Gigi Buffon and Leonardo Bonucci behind the scenes who won major trophies,” added Pjanic.

“We have a few individuals who can make the difference, and Dzeko remains the absolute reference point. He is the man who can break the deadlock in tough situations, is ready in the difficult moments, holds up the ball and can also score the less pretty goals that prove decisive.

“His football intelligence is intact, despite the years going by. I think Amar Dedic is a pure talent too, the Bosnian team can count on him for the next 15 years. He’s afraid of nothing, ready to cross or shoot.”

Marco Palestra made his senior Italy debut last night and in just a few minutes showed why he’s being seriously considered to start against Bosnia.

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There had been suggestions before the game with Northern Ireland that Palestra could be chosen on the right flank, but Matteo Politano of Napoli shrugged off a knock and was able to play instead.

The Cagliari starlet, who is on loan from Atalanta, celebrated his 21^st birthday earlier this month.

As this is Italian football and not Spain, England, Germany or France, that means he is still considered too young to rely on for the national team or a big club.

Italy needs fresh Palestra influence

Palestra came through the legendary Atalanta youth academy, which he joined in 2015 first as a midfielder, then a full-back or wing-back, and was loaned to Cagliari in order to finally give him some regular Serie A playing time.

La Dea repeatedly refused to include a purchase option in the deal, as they know full well the talent they’ve got on their hands and don’t want to risk losing him.

He contributed one goal and four assists in 29 Serie A appearances this season, but the statistics don’t tell the full story of the impact he has had in Sardinia.

Palestra is fearless, ready to take opponents on and use his blistering pace to get away down the right flank.

As he is arguably more of a right-back than a winger, it means he can also provide more defensive cover than Politano, who has been transformed by Antonio Conte from part of a trident attack to a wide man in a five-man midfield.

When he came off the bench against Northern Ireland for seven minutes, Palestra showed one moment of extraordinary skill by taking down a long cross and stopping it dead, only failing to set up a goal because Francesco Pio Esposito’s first touch was too heavy.

This means he might be inexperienced, but he’s not afraid to try something spectacular under pressure.

If Italy are to surprise Bosnia and Herzegovina on Tuesday in the World Cup play-off final, then the pace and class of Palestra could do real damage to some tired old legs.

He gets opponents booked repeatedly in Serie A and causes huge problems for the opponents covering the entire right flank, taking men on without fear.

The Nazionale looked so painfully predictable last night, this youngster can shake things up.

Nicolò Fagioli insists he was not surprised at being snubbed by Italy for the World Cup play-offs, but Fiorentina teammates Moise Kean and Edin Dzeko will be ready.

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The midfielder has impressed in the Viola jersey so far this season with two goals and three assists in 37 competitive appearances.

He already has seven senior caps for Italy, but none since October 2024, after returning from a ban due to illegal gambling.

Fagioli ready to wait for Italy chance

It was widely expected that he would receive a call-up from Gennaro Gattuso for the World Cup play-offs, but he was not included.

“Honestly, no, I think all those players who are there deserved it,” Fagioli told Sky Sport Italia.

“There was controversy over these call-ups, but it would’ve been the same if I had been called up or anyone else, because that is how it works in Italy.

“All we should do is cheer on the Azzurri against Bosnia, wishing them all the best. I hope to do enough to earn my place in the squad in June.”

Some of his teammates are in the Italy squad after the 2-0 victory over Northern Ireland, as Kean was on target following the Sandro Tonali opener.

“Kean struggled more this season, but that’s because in Italian football they study you more carefully after a successful campaign,” insisted Fagioli.

“He also had some injuries and wasn’t in the best shape, but he gave us a big hand to get us out of the difficult situation at Fiorentina. He’s a great player and is proving it for the Nazionale too.”

Fagioli is also familiar with Bosnia and Herzegovina centre-forward Edin Dzeko, who scored the equaliser against Wales last night, forcing extra time and an eventual victory on penalties.

Now they will face Italy in the World Cup play-off final on Tuesday March 31.

“Bosnia are a tough opponent, there is no such thing as an easy game now, we saw how well-organised Northern Ireland were, despite not having any great individual talents.

“Bosnia have a lot more quality in the side, including Dzeko. I got along very well with him at Fiorentina, I was sad he didn’t get to fully prove himself here, but we all know what kind of a player he is.

“I wish him all the best, just maybe not against Italy…”

Does Fagioli have any advice about how Italy can stop Dzeko on Tuesday?

“It’s difficult, he has good technique, and is phenomenal in the air. Italy’s defenders need to be really focused.”

Former Juventus midfielder Alessio Tacchinardi was delighted with Sandro Tonali’s performance in Italy’s 2-0 win over Northern Ireland, so he urged ‘super’ Giorgio Chiellini to ‘bring’ the Newcastle star to Turin.

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Tonali’s goal and assist for Italy against Northern Ireland allowed the Azzurri to secure a 2-0 victory on Thursday and qualify for the World Cup play-off Final.

Ex-Italy and Juventus midfielder Tacchinardi, a Bianconeri fan, reacted to Tonali’s performance on social media, asking his friend and Juventus director Chiellini to sign the Newcastle star this summer.

“Super Chiellini, bring him to Turin, a proper player,” Tacchinardi wrote in an Instagram story published the day after the game.

Juventus are said to be interested in Tonali, even though recent reports suggest Newcastle will demand at least €90m for the ex-Milan star this summer.

Tonali has scored three goals and provided seven assists in 47 appearances across all competitions with Newcastle this season.

The 25-year-old has also scored four goals in 31 appearances with the Italy national team.

Picture: Tacchinardi asks Chiellini to sign Tonali

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Italy beat Northern Ireland 2-0 to boost their bid to reach a men’s World Cup for the first time since 2014, as Bosnia and Herzegovina, Sweden, Poland, Turkiye, Kosovo, the Czech Republic and Denmark also won their European playoff semifinals.

Four-time champions Italy, who lost out in the playoffs for the 2018 and 2022 editions, travel to Bosnia on Tuesday for the final, knowing a win will send them to June and July’s tournament in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

Sandro Tonali blasted in superbly from the edge of the box in the second half of a nervous one-off semifinal in Bergamo on Thursday before Moise Kean made the game safe.

“We made life a bit difficult for ourselves, but in the second half we found our rhythm,” Italy coach and 2006 champion Gennaro Gattuso said. “Now we’re going to play this final. We know it’s difficult. The tension we feel will be felt by our opponents, too.”

Bosnia overcame Wales on penalties in Cardiff following a 1-1 draw after extra time.

Daniel James used his pace to score early in the second period for the hosts, and Karl Darlow then made a wonder save from an Ermedin Demirovic header. Edin Dzeko, 40, levelled late on in normal time.

Darlow saved again from Demirovic in the shootout, but Brennan Johnson and Neco Williams both missed.

Kosovo have never reached a World Cup, but are through to Tuesday’s playoff final at home to Turkiye after winning a wild game in Slovakia 4-3.

The Kosovans twice wiped out a deficit, and Kreshnik Hajrizi’s goal on 72 minutes proved the difference.

Ferdi Kadioglu’s second-half goal put Turkiye through after a tight 1-0 home win over Romania.

Kadioglu calmly netted on 53 minutes after Arda Guler’s magical assist at Besiktas’s stadium in Istanbul.

Romania’s 80-year-old coach Mircea Lucescu, who counts Turkiye among his former jobs, was left to rue Nicolae Stanciu hitting the post as the Tricolours missed the World Cup for the seventh straight edition.

Turkiye, third in 2002, have not reached a men’s World Cup since.

Viktor Gykeres bagged a hat-trick in Sweden’s 3-1 win over Ukraine in Valencia. Ukraine have not played at home since the Russian full-scale invasion more than four years ago, and miss out on another World Cup.

Graham Potter’s Swedes next take on Poland, who came from behind to defeat Albania 2-1 in Warsaw.

Arbr Hoxha pounced 42 minutes after Jan Bednarek’s mistake as Albania dreamed of moving closer to a first World Cup appearance. But record Poland scorer Robert Lewandowski equalised, and Piotr Zielinski won it in style with a goal from distance.

Gustav Isaksen scored twice in two minutes to help Denmark thump North Macedonia 4-0 and set up a meeting away to the Czech Republic, who needed penalties to get past Ireland in Prague.

Troy Parrott, the hero as the Irish made the playoffs at the end of November’s group stage, netted the opener from the spot, and an own goal summed up the poor Czech defence.

But the hosts pulled one back through Patrik Schick’s penalty and Ladislav Krejci’s late header to make it 2-2, prompted by a cagey extra time, with the Czechs prevailing in a shootout.

This year’s tournament, in North America in June and July, will feature an expanded 48 teams, meaning more nations have a chance to qualify.

Twelve European countries have already gotten through by winning their groups. The playoffs are made up of second-placed teams and sides who did well in the previous Nations League.

Bolivia beat Suriname, Jamaica edge New Caledonia to reach playoff finals

In FIFA’s intercontinental playoff games on Thursday, Bolivia rallied to beat Suriname 2-1 to qualify for the final qualifying playoff against Iraq.

Liam Van Gelderen put Suriname ahead in the 48th minute, but Moises Paniagua tied the score at the 72nd, and Miguel Terceros had the winning goal on a penalty kick in the 79th minute for the Bolivians, who are aiming for their second World Cup appearance.

The Bolivians have only previously played in the 1994 World Cup in the US. Suriname were looking to qualify for the first time.

Bolivia will play Iraq next Tuesday in Monterrey, with the winner qualifying for Group I with France, Norway and Senegal.

Elsewhere on Thursday, a first-half goal by Wrexham striker Bailey Cadamarteri gave Jamaica a 1-0 victory over New Caledonia and a place in the international playoff final against the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

The Reggae Boyz have only one World Cup appearance, at France in 1998. New Caledonia, from Oceania, saw their chance to advance to a first World Cup end.

Jamaica will face DRC next Tuesday at Akron Stadium in Guadalajara. DRC qualified for the playoff by defeating Nigeria in an African playoff.

The winner in Guadalajara will play in Group K in the tournament along with Colombia, Portugal and Uzbekistan.

Gennaro Gattuso gives his first comment after learning Italy will face Bosnia and Herzegovina in the World Cup play-off final. ‘There are a lot of experienced players, Wales are very different.’

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The Azzurri were forced to wait for quite a while after their 2-0 victory over Northern Ireland, as Edin Dzeko cancelled out the Welsh opener in Cardiff and forced extra time.

It remained 1-1 after 120 minutes and they could only be separated in a penalty shoot-out.

The final for a spot in the World Cup will be at the Bilino Polje stadium in Zenica on Tuesday March 31.

Gattuso preparing Italy for Bosnia trip

“It’s going to be a fiery atmosphere, though if we had gone to Cardiff, it would’ve been a similar situation,” said Gattuso in his press conference.

“There are a lot of experienced players in the Bosnia team, Wales are very different. Bosnia close up well, rely on their strikers, so it’ll be another very difficult game, much like the one we had tonight.”

It took until the 56^th minute for Italy to break Northern Ireland down with a Sandro Tonali strike from the edge of the area, then the Newcastle United midfielder set up Moise Kean for the second.

Did the Azzurri feel the pressure of being the favourites a bit too much?

“Aside from the pressure, we also made a mistake in the first half with Locatelli sitting too deep, we ended up with Mancini acting as a full-back, which was not what we had prepared at all,” confessed Gattuso.

“We needed to bring their midfielders forward and look for our strikers, but instead we kept passing it down the right for Politano to take his man on, occasionally on the left, but not enough.

“Northern Ireland surprised us too, as we expected them to be far more vertical, but they did try to pass it around. After 15-20 minutes, we realised that and moved better. Our mentality and our tactics in the first half were not what we wanted.”

The tension was palpable on the touchline, but Gattuso assured he tried to keep his usually abrasive manner under wraps.

“If you noticed, I was very calm in the first half. I was angry too, because for long spells we didn’t do what we had prepared. I explained we needed to go for the strikers and not sit so deep. We did much better after the restart, I realise these are games where you feel the tension and what is at stake,” continued the coach.

“The decision to come here in a smaller stadium was also wise, because if we’d been in a bigger place with 70,000 in the stands, trust me that a good 30 per cent would’ve started jeering at half-time. Instead, we did well to pick Bergamo, the fans helped us and they were fundamental in not putting more pressure on my players.”

Alessandro Bastoni had been a major doubt due to an ankle injury and he was the first player substituted soon after receiving a yellow card.

“I’ll be honest, Bastoni had been out for nearly three weeks and not even training in that time. He was booked, I preferred to not take any more risks, but the others are to be relied upon. Only Scamacca is carrying a knock, but he should be there too in the second game.

“In other situations, Bastoni would 99 per cent not have been risked from the start today. Now we’ve got to try to recover as quickly as possible and do as little damage as possible.”

Marco Palestra made his senior Italy debut in a 2-0 World Cup play-off win over Northern Ireland. ‘I’ll remember this for the rest of my life.’

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The Azzurri took a while to break through the Northern Ireland defence in Bergamo, eventually getting there with Sandro Tonali’s strike from the edge of the area.

Tonali then set up Moise Kean to seal the 2-0 result, sending them through to the play-off final.

It was also a special day because Palestra came off the bench in the last few minutes for his senior Italy debut.

Palestra makes Italy debut at age 21

“This was a unique experience, especially because we won on my debut, so I’ll remember this for the rest of my life,” Palestra told RAI Sport.

It was even more special because he is a product of the Atalanta youth academy and still owned by the club, on loan to Cagliari, so debuted in his home stadium.

“I spent many years in Bergamo, so I am even happier because it was here. Training with players like this and Gennaro Gattuso as a coach is certainly remarkable, we’ve got to keep going like this.”

The play-off final will be away to Bosnia and Herzegovina on Tuesday March 31 for a place at the 2026 World Cup in Canada, Mexico and USA.

“We have to feel confident, we know that we are up against a strong opponent, but also know what our quality is. If we play our game the way we can, then we will go through.”

Manuel Locatelli reveals what Gennaro Gattuso said during Italy’s 2-0 win over Northern Ireland and feels ‘responsible for all those children out there’ supporting the Azzurri.

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The Nazionale took a step closer to participation in the 2026 World Cup by winning the semi-final in Bergamo, thanks to goals from Sandro Tonali and Moise Kean.

They still have to play in the final away from home on Tuesday March 31, but don’t yet know who against, because Wales and Bosnia and Herzegovina have gone to extra time following their 1-1 draw.

Locatelli feels Italy responsibility

“We haven’t taken a weight off our shoulders yet, because we still have a play-off final to play,” Locatelli told RAI Sport.

“We haven’t achieved anything yet. It was a bit of a tense start, but the second half was much better. Now we need to play another great final.”

It remains to be seen who that will be against, because Wales and Bosnia and Herzegovina have gone to extra time after their semi-final ended 1-1.

Gattuso said that Locatelli was too deep in the first half and pressed close to the defensive line.

“I had the feeling on the pitch that I could help the team more from there, but the coach told me to get into a more advanced role, and we did better in the second half,” replied the Juventus midfielder.

Italy were the favourites going in, but Locatelli reveals what Gattuso told his squad at half-time.

“The coach said: ‘You didn’t think it was going to be easy, did you?’ We must always have this unity and solidity, because hard work pays off in the end.

“We expected it to be tough, we are a great side and Gattuso is our leader. We are truly united, also thanks to all the suffering we’ve been through in recent years.

“Now there can be no alibis, we must play a great final. We need character, players who want the ball and have positive words for their teammates. We showed patience to break them down and we did it in the end. We also thank the fans for their patience today.”

Italy have missed out on the last two editions of the World Cup after losing play-offs in 2018 and 2022, so there are entire generations who never watched the Azzurri participate on the biggest stage in football.

“We know full well that we are responsible for all those children out there and the entire Italian football movement. We are certainly not lacking in motivation,” concluded Locatelli.

Moise Kean ‘felt the whole country was on my shoulders’ after scoring in Italy’s 2-0 win over Northern Ireland, but they have ‘one more game to go’ for a World Cup ticket.

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The Azzurri went into the play-off semi-final with so much pressure as the favourites, but needed until the 56^th minute to finally break the deadlock with Sandro Tonali’s strike.

Tonali also provided the assist for the second goal, which Kean controlled with his right foot to cut inside the defender, placing the left-foot finish into the far bottom corner.

Kean sealed the Italy win

“There is one more game to go, we need one more step, but we are feeling positive and need to keep going,” Kean told Sky Sport Italia.

“Northern Ireland are a good team, we should’ve studied them a bit more. Our game was good tonight, now we set our minds to the next test.”

Italy have won all but one of their matches since Gattuso took over from Luciano Spalletti, but it was still not enough to snatch first place in the qualifying group from Norway.

“The coach has so much love for the Azzurri shirt, he pushes us to never give up.”

Kean admits he felt the pressure too, knowing that the Nazionale have missed the last two editions of the World Cup by losing play-offs in 2018 and 2022.

“I felt the whole country was on my shoulders, and it was wonderful when I scored, I hope to continue helping my team and my country.

“We are a strong side, and I want to keep giving my contribution.”

It remains to be seen who their opponents will be in the play-off final, because Wales and Bosnia and Herzegovina have gone to extra time thanks to a late equaliser from Kean’s former Fiorentina teammate Edin Dzeko.

Sandro Tonali admits Italy felt ‘tension’ during the 2-0 victory over Northern Ireland, but ‘have no option but to win’ in the World Cup play-off final.

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The Azzurri struggled to break Northern Ireland down at the New Balance Arena in Bergamo, until Tonali smashed in a strike from the edge of the area on 56 minutes, pouncing on a poor clearance.

The midfielder was also instrumental in the second goal, as his assist was controlled by Moise Kean for a precise angled drive in off the inside of the far post.

Tonali felt Italy nerves before breakthrough

“It felt like a replay of the game with Estonia in Bergamo. We didn’t create as many chances, but were against a very physical side that was dangerous on long balls, which we had suffered with recently,” Tonali told RAI Sport.

“We didn’t have many moments of quality, but we did well to make the most of them when we did.”

The pressure was immense on the Nazionale, who missed the last two editions of the World Cup in 2018 and 2022.

“There was some tension at the start of the second half, but after taking the lead, we really started to feel free of pressure with our mentality,” added Tonali.

“We focused on not giving them their strengths, and were concentrated on the set plays, so when we do that, it’s unlikely we’ll concede to this kind of team.”

Not Italy must wait to discover who they will play in the World Cup play-off final on Tuesday March 31, because Wales and Bosnia and Herzegovina have gone to extra time.

“We’ve been feeling positive since the coach arrived, we’ve got to continue like this, there’s no other option but to win.

“I dedicate this goal to everyone, because we all deserve to go to the World Cup. We’ve done nothing yet, but it still feels like the most important goal of my career, along with the one for Milan against Lazio.”

Gennaro Gattuso admits ‘it was a struggle’ for Italy to beat Northern Ireland 2-0, but ‘now we go together into this final’ of the World Cup play-offs.

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The pressure was immense going into the semi-final in Bergamo, which only got worse as the clock ticked on with no breakthrough in sight.

Sandro Tonali finally managed to give them the lead against Northern Ireland with a low strike from the edge of the area, then his assist was knocked down and drilled into the far bottom corner by Moise Kean for 2-0.

Gattuso relief at Italy victory

“It was a struggle, this was not at all easy. They even surprised us, trying to make vertical passes, we could’ve done better,” Gattuso told RAI Sport.

“There was concentration, Locatelli went too deep, we were not developing the play properly or the way we had prepared, but we did well, and it was not to be taken for granted.

“We were too slow, Locatelli was pushed back, but we moved the ball quicker after the break, and now we have to play the final.

“It’s difficult, we knew this game was tough too, so now we must try to recharge the batteries.”

The Nazionale are only halfway there, because they will now have to face Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina in the play-off final in Cardiff on Tuesday March 31.

That tie has gone to extra time, as Edin Dzeko cancelled out the Daniel James opener.

“The tension that we feel is the same that the other team feels. Obviously, those are two very different teams and different atmospheres await us, but we want to enjoy this moment now,” added Gattuso.

“We thank the fans of Bergamo once again, I heard very few jeers, we went into the locker room at half-time to applause. I thank the people of Bergamo and now we go together into this final.”

Italy are through to the World Cup play-off final, as Sandro Tonali scored one and assisted another for Moise Kean to break Northern Ireland down.

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The Azzurri went into this crucial match without Federico Chiesa, Mattia Zaccagni, Giovanni Di Lorenzo and Gianluca Scamacca, but Alessandro Bastoni and Matteo Politano shook off knocks to start. Northern Ireland missed Ali McCann, Conor Bradley and Daniel Ballard, qualifying for the play-offs largely thanks to their Nations League results. The winners will face either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina in the play-off final away from home on March 31.

See how it all unfolded on the Liveblog.

Federico Dimarco twice tested the goalkeeper at the near post early on, including a ferocious half-volley was parried at the near post and struck Mateo Retegui.

Ethan Galbraith slipped on the counter-attack and prodded a finish straight at Gianluigi Donnarumma when he should’ve passed to Isaac Price.

Retegui’s angled drive was also charged down by Ruari McConville, while Bastoni’s header was deflected just wide off Brodie Spencer.

Moise Kean blasted high and wide from the edge of the area, while Bastoni nodded over from another corner.

Retegui’s effort was straight at the goalkeeper, then after the restart a Riccardo Calafiori hopeful attempt with his weaker right foot was deflected into the arms of Pierce Charles.

Retegui should’ve scored when he was sent clear through the middle on a Northern Ireland error, but his first touch was poor and he clattered into the goalkeeper.

Moments later, Charles got down for a great fingertip save on the Kean angled drive.

The pressure paid off, as a Politano cross was headed clear by Isaac Price to the edge of the area, where Tonali let it bounce to smash in hard and low with his right foot on the half-volley.

Federico Gatti replaced Bastoni after a yellow card, but Kean forced another save with an angled drive after running down the right.

Advantage Italy!

Sandro Tonali with a thunderous opener for the hosts #BBCFootball pic.twitter.com/d85EmorpEY

— BBC SPORT NI (@BBCSPORTNI) March 26, 2026

Dimarco’s touch was too heavy as Riccardo Calafiori rolled across, but Gianluigi Donnarumma got away with a terrible pass intercepted by Donley.

Francesco Pio Esposito’s glancing header from a corner was cleared almost off the line by Hume with Calafiori ready to make sure behind him.

Kean went so close with an acrobatic overhead kick from Barella’s cross on a short corner, but it was just a warning, as moments later he made it 2-0.

Kean with number two!

Italy have one foot in the World Cup play-off final.#BBCFootball pic.twitter.com/7zhlfq9uGk

— BBC SPORT NI (@BBCSPORTNI) March 26, 2026

Tonali was involved again with a ball over the top, Kean controlled with his right, used the bounce to turn inside his defender and sweep the left-foot snooker shot in off the inside of the far post.

Marco Palestra made his senior debut and showed his skill with a sensational take on Dimarco’s cross, but Pio Esposito couldn’t keep it in play.

In added time, a Northern Ireland free kick ricocheted around in the six-yard box, but nobody could finish it off.

Italy 2-0 Northern Ireland

Tonali 56 (I), Kean 80 (I)

26-03-2026 19:45

1/2 Final

Italy

Northern Ireland

2 - 0

Player statistic

2nd half

Sandro Tonali		56'
Alessandro Bastoni		58'
Moise Kean (Assist: Sandro Tonali)		80'

Match statistic

63

Possession %

37

19

Total shots

8

8

Shots on target

1

6

Shots off target

4

5

Blocked shots

3

12

Corners

3

2

Offsides

0

11

Fouls

8

Italy

Northern Ireland

Starting lineups

1

Gianluigi Donnarumma

Goalkeeper

21

Alessandro Bastoni

Defender

63'

3

Federico Dimarco

Defender

23

Gianluca Mancini

Defender

13

Riccardo Calafiori

Defender

5

Manuel Locatelli

Midfielder

18

Nicolò Barella

Midfielder

8

Sandro Tonali

Midfielder

83'

9

Mateo Retegui

Attacker

64'

7

Matteo Politano

Attacker

83'

11

Moise Kean

Attacker

88'

23

Pierce Charles

Goalkeeper

20

Brodie Spencer

Defender

79'

17

Paddy McNair

Defender

13

Ruairi McConville

Defender

5

Trai Hume

Defender

7

Ethan Galbraith

Midfielder

14

Isaac Price

Midfielder

15

Justin Devenny

Midfielder

19

Shea Charles

Midfielder

2

Terry Devlin

Midfielder

68'

10

Jamie Donley

Attacker

79'

Substitutes

16

Bryan Cristante

Midfielder

4

Leonardo Spinazzola

Defender

22

Alex Meret

Goalkeeper

6

Alessandro Buongiorno

Defender

20

Giorgio Scalvini

Defender

17

Davide Frattesi

Midfielder

12

Marco Carnesecchi

Goalkeeper

19

Federico Gatti

Defender

63'

15

Pio Esposito

Attacker

64'

14

Niccolò Pisilli

Midfielder

83'

2

Marco Palestra

Defender

83'

10

Giacomo Raspadori

Attacker

88'

12

Conor Hazard

Goalkeeper

1

Bailey Peacock-Farrell

Goalkeeper

6

George Saville

Midfielder

22

Ciaron Brown

Defender

3

Eoin Toal

Defender

8

Callum Marshall

Attacker

16

Brad Lyons

Midfielder

9

Patrick Kelly

Midfielder

4

Tom Atcheson

Defender

11

Paul Smyth

Attacker

68'

21

Josh Magennis

Attacker

79'

18

Jamie Reid

Attacker

79'

Northern Ireland manager Michael O’Neill explains how he aims to ‘cause Italy problems’ in tonight’s World Cup play-off, trying to rely on their ‘running power and athleticism.’

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It kicks off at the New Balance Arena in Bergamo at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens on the Liveblog.

The winner will be decided tonight after 90 minutes, extra time, or even a penalty shoot-out.

Whoever goes through can then face either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina in the final on Tuesday March 31.

O’Neill had Northern Ireland injury problems

Liverpool defender Conor Bradley is out with a knee injury and they lost Sunderland defender Daniel Ballard too.

“With the players that we have unavailable to us, I think the most important thing was to put as much running power and athleticism in the team, so that is what we tried to do,” O’Neill told BBC Sport.

“With Pierce coming back in, and obviously Brody Spencer coming in on the left hand side, Justin playing in the midfield area too.”

Midfielder Ali McCann has also been left out after the Preston midfielder failed a late fitness test.

“We knew earlier in the week it was a long shot, so it was disappointing when he came in, but he did everything possible to be fit and unfortunately didn’t make it,” noted O’Neill.

“We’re young, but I think this team is ready for the occasion. I wanted to put as much athleticism on the pitch as I could.”

Jamie Donley is confirmed upfront for Northern Ireland after scoring his first international goal against Luxembourg.

“He played well against Luxembourg, he’s a different proposition from the other strikers that we have, he can drop into areas, and it might be difficult for them to play against him with a back three.

“His link-up play is good, a young player with high potential.”

How do Northern Ireland feel they can cause Italy difficulties as underdogs in this match?

“We know what type of game it is, and obviously we’re going to have to be very disciplined, but we can cause them problems, especially on transitions, we’ve got the running power particularly in the midfield four and the wide areas to get up the pitch and retain the ball in transition with players who can cause them problems,” added O’Neill.

“It’s not difficult to give players a message for a game like this. We’re obviously delighted to be here at this stage of the competition, but we want to go to the next step. The players have been brilliant all week, there’s a steely determination in them, confidence as well, a belief.

“This is a young team with everything to gain, and hopefully we can take that next step.”

"We can always cause them problems"

Can Northern Ireland get the job done in Bergamo?

Watch, listen and follow live across BBC One NI, BBC iPlayer, BBC Sounds and the BBC Sport website and app #BBCFootball pic.twitter.com/RFrwwIPDQv

— BBC SPORT NI (@BBCSPORTNI) March 26, 2026

Gennaro Gattuso’s assistant Luigi Riccio insists Italy and their fans must not ‘get hysterical’ if they struggle to break Northern Ireland down early.

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It kicks off at the New Balance Arena in Bergamo at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens on the Liveblog.

The winner will be decided tonight after 90 minutes, extra time, or even a penalty shoot-out.

Whoever goes through can then face either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina in the final on Tuesday March 31.

Italy carry pressure of World Cup qualification

“For the moment, this is the best team that we feel is available to start, and we also have faith in those who can come off the bench and change the game,” assistant manager Riccio told RAI Sport.

Northern Ireland beat Slovakia in qualifying, also losing narrowly 1-0 to Germany and Slovakia in that group.

“They have strengths, as they caused difficulties for almost all opponents. We must do well in the final third and force them to make problematic choices.

“It’s also important that we are alert with preventative marking, to stop their transitions and long balls. We feel ready and positive.”

The big fear is that the result will remain at 0-0 and drag on until the tension becomes unbearable on the Azzurri and in the crowd.

“It would be ideal to break the deadlock early, but we must be prepared even if we don’t do that, so we don’t get hysterical,” concluded Gattuso’s assistant.

There will be a minute’s silence before kick-off for former Italy, Bologna, Napoli and Atalanta striker Beppe Savoldi.

Gennaro Gattuso warns Italy must ‘not talk about fear, but think positive’ in the World Cup play-off against Northern Ireland, but at the same time ‘respect’ their opponents.

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It kicks off at the New Balance Arena in Bergamo at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens on the Liveblog.

The winner will be decided tonight after 90 minutes, extra time, or even a penalty shoot-out.

Whoever goes through can then face either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina in the final on Tuesday March 31.

Gattuso calls for Italy positive thinking

Gattuso personally picked the Bergamo venue because he wanted the fans to be more supportive compared to bigger venues like San Siro or the Stadio Olimpico.

“We know it will start with a wonderful atmosphere, but then it’s up to us to show that we’re keeping that up and in the game,” the coach told RAI Sport.

It is beyond doubt that Italy are stronger on paper than Northern Ireland, but that can be a double-edged sword.

“When it comes to set plays, it all starts from scratch, they are very strong in these situations, and we must respect them,” noted Gattuso.

“In open play, we’ve got more, but we must not under-estimate them. What we need is patience. It is not a scandal, they believe in themselves and it is no fluke that Germany and Slovakia struggled to 1-0 wins over them in qualifying.

“Northern Ireland are tough, even if they aren’t that showy a team.”

Francesco Pio Esposito is on the bench, as Moise Kean and Mateo Retegui are chosen to lead the attack.

“We’re in good shape there, but what matters is having strikers who can also help develop the moves against a physically strong defence. We need to reach the final third in the right way to find those spaces.”

Considering Italy missed the World Cup in 2018 and 2022 by losing the play-offs to opponents who were weaker on paper, how can they turn fear into courage?

“The best thing is not to talk about fear,” replied Gattuso. “We must think positive, as many of these players were here four years ago, they know what they went through. Everyone must give 150 per cent.

“I can assure you, throughout this week, we never said the word fear. I am convinced that tonight people will be passionate and put themselves in front of the television cheering us on wildly.

“It is still up to us, we gave the fans so much disappointment and they are hungry for some joy.”

There will be a minute’s silence before kick-off for former Italy, Bologna, Napoli and Atalanta striker Beppe Savoldi.

Alessandro Bastoni and Matteo Politano start with Moise Kean and Mateo Retegui as Italy host Northern Ireland in the World Cup play-off semi-final.

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It kicks off at the New Balance Arena in Bergamo at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens on the Liveblog.

The winner will be decided tonight after 90 minutes, extra time, or even a penalty shoot-out.

Whoever goes through can then face either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina in the final on Tuesday March 31.

There will be a minute’s silence before kick-off for former Italy, Bologna, Napoli and Atalanta striker Beppe Savoldi.

The Nazionale have missed the last two editions of the World Cup, losing the play-offs to Sweden for 2018 and North Macedonia in 2022.

There were some injury doubts going in, and Gianluca Scamacca has been left in the stands along with Andrea Cambiaso, Nicolò Cambiaghi, Diego Coppola and Elia Caprile.

Both Inter defender Bastoni and Napoli winger Politano got the all-clear and are in the starting XI, preferred to Marco Palestra, with Riccardo Calafiori, Sandro Tonali and Gianluca Mancini also shaking off knocks.

Kean and Retegui are confirmed as the attacking partnership, with Francesco Pio Esposito ready to come off the bench.

Players who were forced to withdraw due to injuries or not called up at all include Federico Chiesa, Mattia Zaccagni, Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Matteo Gabbia, Guglielmo Vicario and Nicolò Rovella.

Northern Ireland had some major issues too, as Liverpool defender Conor Bradley is out with a knee injury and they lost Sunderland defender Daniel Ballard too.

Midfielder Ali McCann has also been left out after the Preston midfielder failed a fitness test.

This means only three of the players in the 28-man squad belong to a top division club.

Coach Michael O’Neill is simultaneously in charge of the Northern Ireland national team and of English Championship side Blackburn Rovers, a role he took on February 13.

They qualified for the play-offs thanks largely to their Nations League promotion to League B, finishing third in their World Cup qualifying group behind Germany and Slovakia.

They beat Slovakia 2-0, along with victories over Luxembourg, losing only 1-0 to both Germany and Slovakia last year.

Their most valuable players are Sunderland right-back Trai Hume, Crystal Palace midfielder Justin Devenny and Southampton’s Shea Charles.

Northern Ireland participated in three editions of the World Cup in 1958, 1982 and 1986.

Italy vs. Northern Ireland line-ups

Italy: Donnarumma; Mancini, Bastoni, Calafiori; Politano, Barella, Locatelli, Tonali, Dimarco; Kean, Retegui

Italy bench: Carnesecchi, Meret, Palestra, Spinazzola, Buongiorno, Gatti, Scalvini, Pisilli, Cristante, Frattesi, Raspadori, Esposito

Northern Ireland: P Charles; Hume, McNair, McConville; Devlin, S Charles, Galbraith, Devenny, Spencer; Price; Donley

Northern Ireland bench: Peacock-Farrell, Hazard, Toal, Atcheson, Saville, Marshall, Kelly, Smyth, Lyons, Reid, Magennis, Brown

Ref: Makkelie (NED)

26-03-2026 19:45

1/2 Final

Italy

Northern Ireland

2 - 0

Player statistic

2nd half

Sandro Tonali		56'
Alessandro Bastoni		58'
Moise Kean (Assist: Sandro Tonali)		80'

Match statistic

63

Possession %

37

19

Total shots

8

8

Shots on target

1

6

Shots off target

4

5

Blocked shots

3

12

Corners

3

2

Offsides

0

11

Fouls

8

Italy

Northern Ireland

Starting lineups

1

Gianluigi Donnarumma

Goalkeeper

21

Alessandro Bastoni

Defender

63'

3

Federico Dimarco

Defender

23

Gianluca Mancini

Defender

13

Riccardo Calafiori

Defender

5

Manuel Locatelli

Midfielder

18

Nicolò Barella

Midfielder

8

Sandro Tonali

Midfielder

83'

9

Mateo Retegui

Attacker

64'

7

Matteo Politano

Attacker

83'

11

Moise Kean

Attacker

88'

23

Pierce Charles

Goalkeeper

20

Brodie Spencer

Defender

79'

17

Paddy McNair

Defender

13

Ruairi McConville

Defender

5

Trai Hume

Defender

7

Ethan Galbraith

Midfielder

14

Isaac Price

Midfielder

15

Justin Devenny

Midfielder

19

Shea Charles

Midfielder

2

Terry Devlin

Midfielder

68'

10

Jamie Donley

Attacker

79'

Substitutes

16

Bryan Cristante

Midfielder

4

Leonardo Spinazzola

Defender

22

Alex Meret

Goalkeeper

6

Alessandro Buongiorno

Defender

20

Giorgio Scalvini

Defender

17

Davide Frattesi

Midfielder

12

Marco Carnesecchi

Goalkeeper

19

Federico Gatti

Defender

63'

15

Pio Esposito

Attacker

64'

14

Niccolò Pisilli

Midfielder

83'

2

Marco Palestra

Defender

83'

10

Giacomo Raspadori

Attacker

88'

12

Conor Hazard

Goalkeeper

1

Bailey Peacock-Farrell

Goalkeeper

6

George Saville

Midfielder

22

Ciaron Brown

Defender

3

Eoin Toal

Defender

8

Callum Marshall

Attacker

16

Brad Lyons

Midfielder

9

Patrick Kelly

Midfielder

4

Tom Atcheson

Defender

11

Paul Smyth

Attacker

68'

21

Josh Magennis

Attacker

79'

18

Jamie Reid

Attacker

79'

{rsn-live-v2}

Como director, Carlalberto Ludi says there is a ‘high probability’ that Nico Paz will spend another year at the club and is also confident about Cesc Fabregas’ stay ‘until something extraordinary happens.’

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Argentine talent Nico Paz has been among the best Serie A players this season, prompting several media outlets to claim that Real Madrid would re-sign him at the end of the season.

During an interview with Radio Radio Lo Sport, however, Como’s sporting director Ludi said he was confident Paz would spend another season at the Stadio Sinigaglia.

“There is a high probability that Nico Paz will stay with us for another year,” Ludi said via Calciomercato.com.

As previously stated by Como President Mirwan Suwarso, a decision on Nico Paz’s future is entirely up to Real Madrid, as the Merengues have an option to re-sign the Argentine until 2027 and can match any offer Como receive in the same period.

“It’s always the same story. We cannot control the will of others,” Ludi continued.

“We are happy with him [Nico Paz], and he is very happy with us. Any European competition would play in our favour. The chances of him staying are still high today, even if the World Cup has to be considered too.”

Como sit fourth in the Serie A table with a three-point lead over Juventus and Roma, so even the Azzurri’s coach, Cesc Fabregas, has been subject to speculation.

“We have already talked several times. Right now, we are in a sweet spot. There is total alignment between what he wants to do and Como,” Ludi concluded.

“We want to continue growing, and we make resources available to him without limits. Until something extraordinary happens on the market concerning him, we will move forward together. We can talk about what we offer him, not what others might offer. At this moment, we have no fear that he might leave us.”

Milan and Paris Saint-Germain are reportedly interested in Manchester United-owned striker Marcus Rashford as Barcelona are unsure about signing the Englishman permanently.

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Milan follow Rashford amid Barcelona’s ‘backtrack’

Caughtoffside reports that Milan and PSG are monitoring Rashford’s situation at Barcelona, as the Catalans are unsure whether to make the striker’s move permanent in the summer.

The La Liga giants have a €30m clause to sign Rashford permanently from Manchester United, and only a few months ago, they seemed willing to activate it.

A source with direct knowledge of the matter has now said that Barcelona are “backtracking” on Rashford, although it remains unclear whether the Catalans are unwilling to retain him or are simply trying to negotiate a lower fee for a permanent transfer.

According to the source, Barcelona’s finances are “an issue” for the Catalans, although Rashford is expected to push to stay at the club beyond the summer.

Milan and PSG will continue to monitor the situation in the coming months, as both sides have previously shown interest in the striker.

Rashford, 28, has scored ten goals and provided 13 assists in 39 appearances across all competitions this season.

Alessandro Bastoni was tested out in the starting XI for Italy in tonight’s session, so is expected to start in the World Cup play-off against Northern Ireland.

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It kicks off at the New Balance Arena in Bergamo on Thursday at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).

Whoever emerges as the winner from that fixture will then face either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina in the final on March 31.

Bastoni barrelling towards full fitness

Inter defender Bastoni had been the biggest doubt to feature, after missing the last couple of Inter games with a bruised ankle.

He took part in some of the training session today and Sky Sport Italia report he was tested in the starting XI during this evening’s run-out in Bergamo.

Unless the pain flares up again overnight, then Bastoni is widely expected to start in the 3-5-2 formation.

If he doesn’t play, then Napoli’s Alessandro Buongiorno and Juventus defender Federico Gatti are the options to step in.

This leaves only one big decision for Gennaro Gattuso to make, and that is more tactical than based purely on fitness levels.

That is on the right wing between 21-year-old Cagliari talent Marco Palestra and Napoli winger Matteo Politano.

Italy probable: Donnarumma; Mancini, Bastoni, Calafiori; Palestra, Tonali, Locatelli, Barella, Dimarco; Kean, Retegui

Northern Ireland manager Michael O’Neill warns they have ‘everything to gain’ in the World Cup play-off. ‘The longer it stays at 0-0, the more pressure’ is in Italy.

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The semi-final kicks off in Bergamo on Thursday at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).

Whoever goes through will play either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina in the final for a spot at the 2026 World Cup in Canada, Mexico and the USA.

Northern Ireland got here thanks to two victories over Luxembourg and one against Slovakia, losing twice to Germany and once to Slovakia.

They also earned promotion to the Nations League B, which was decisive for setting up this play-off.

O’Neill has faith in Northern Ireland

“We have everything to gain in this match, there’s no doubt about that,” started O’Neill in his press conference.

“These players have already experienced important games and stadiums, away to Germany and Slovakia. Tomorrow will be a very important test for us, but we are ready.

“We’ve got to play the game and not think too much about what is at stake. There are such big expectations on Italy, being a great football nation, and we mustn’t be intimidated by that. We have many young players and this’ll be part of the growth process.”

There are also doubts over Preston midfielder Ali McCann, but O’Neill assured he trained and they are “optimistic” he’ll be able to start tomorrow.

Northern Ireland play in a 3-5-2 formation, which is also what Gennaro Gattuso is expected to use in this clash.

“Gattuso had six matches as Italy coach and we can learn from those games that we analysed. We know they have options in attack and in the three-man defence, there are certain players we expect to be there, but it all depends on our performance, how we deal with the dangers that present themselves.”

Gattuso said today that he has been losing sleep over the World Cup campaign and feels the weight of responsibility.

“Of course, being the Italy manager is very different to being the manager of Northern Ireland,” confessed O’Neill.

“I really admire him for accepting the job at that moment. In six games, he won five and only lost to Norway. That was their last game, so this might be a factor for them, but I have great respect for Gattuso.”

The Italy coach also noted that Northern Ireland are a ‘very vertical team’ who love to pump long balls into the box.

“I don’t think he’s underestimating us. Italy have long balls too, from the centre-back to the wingers. The most important thing is that we have a game plan and we want to put it into practice.

“We have to be realistic. We can’t come here and think we’re going to dominate the game, that would be naïve to suggest that. We have a game plan and it worked in the past too,” continued O’Neill.

“We did really well to get to this point. I’m very proud of the players, we had some difficulty in the group, but the players know what is at stake. It’s a one-off match, we are here. Young players tend to go into these situations without fear, and they’ll have many opportunities in future, but mustn’t waste this chance either.”

The pressure is undoubtedly all on Italy’s heads and that is something Northern Ireland fully intend to make the most of.

“We have great respect for Italy, we need to try to make life difficult for them, and the psychological aspect might become a factor,” continued O’Neill.

“We know the strength of their midfield, with Sandro Tonali, Manuel Locatelli and Nicolò Barella. Then there’s Pio Esposito.

“But this Italy doesn’t have an Alessandro Del Piero, a Francesco Totti, the strength of this Italy side is not in their individuals. Having said that, we respect them, they have high level players.”

When it comes to the pressure, it is bound to intensify the longer the game stays at 0-0.

“It is important for us to stay in the game, make sure it’s not too open. The longer it stays at 0-0, the more the pressure increases on the favourites. We know that we can be dangerous for them too, with planned attacks or maybe set plays,” concluded O’Neill.

“We’re not expecting to come here and see a game with lots of goals, we hope for a very tight match. We also got a few quotes from the Italian newspaper and showed them to the lads. How Italy deal with the pressure is going to be a decisive factor.”

There have been some injury problems, as Sunderland defender Daniel Ballard and Liverpool’s Conor Bradley were both forced to withdraw.

Here's the latest from @NorthernIreland boss Michael O'Neill after the squad arrived in Bergamo this evening #BBCFootball pic.twitter.com/HRlRkYcmEG

— BBC SPORT NI (@BBCSPORTNI) March 25, 2026

There are two major doubts for the Italy starting XI against Northern Ireland in the World Cup play-off semi-final, which will be a 3-5-2 formation.

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It kicks off at the New Balance Arena in Bergamo on Thursday at 19.45 GMT (20.45 CET).

Whoever wins will then go on to face either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina in the final for a place at the 2026 World Cup in Canada, Mexico and the USA.

Italy plan starting XI against Northern Ireland

Coach Gennaro Gattuso confirmed today that Gianluca Mancini, Riccardo Calafiori and Matteo Politano are fully fit, so the worries over their potential fitness levels after arriving from club duty carrying knocks would seem to be surpassed.

Alessandro Bastoni took part in some of the training session today, but remains a major doubt, so with the potential final coming up on March 31, it’s possible he won’t be rushed.

If the Inter defender can’t make it, then Juventus centre-back Federico Gatti or Napoli’s Alessandro Buongiorno are ready to step in.

The only other doubt is a tactical one, choosing between impressive Cagliari talent Marco Palestra and Napoli veteran Politano on the right wing.

Despite his fine recent form for Inter, Francesco Pio Esposito will be on the bench initially, as Moise Kean and Mateo Retegui start upfront.

Italy probable: Donnarumma; Mancini, Bastoni, Calafiori; Palestra, Tonali, Locatelli, Barella, Dimarco; Kean, Retegui