Roma came back repeatedly to force the tie to extra time after a 3-3 thriller at the Stadio Olimpico, but Bologna will face Aston Villa in the Europa League quarter-final.

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The first leg ended 1-1, so it was all to play for in this Italian derby for the chance to face Aston Villa in the quarter-final. Paulo Dybala, Matias Soulé, Artem Dovbyk and Evan Ferguson were still out injured, with Lorenzo Venturino not on the UEFA list, after just two draws in four competitive games. Lukasz Skorupski picked up an injury in the win at Sassuolo, so Federico Ravaglia took the Rossoblu gloves. The Stadio Olimpico is a special venue for Bologna, as they won the Coppa Italia here last season.

See how it all unfolded on the Liveblog.

Santiago Castro went on a rapid counter-attack for the finish deflected wide by Zeki Celik, but Roma were forced into an early change when Manu Koné hobbled off the field with a muscular issue.

Moments later, Bologna took the lead when Jonathan Rowe smashed a ferocious effort into the roof of the net from the edge of the area, but Roma complained that the England striker had pushed Gianluca Mancini in the build-up, creating that gap through the centre of their defence.

Jonathan Rowe hit that one so clean!

@tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/6f7dF9no4l

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) March 19, 2026

Svilar got down for a one-handed save on Federico Bernardeschi’s angled drive, but after Lorenzo Pellegrini’s free kick smacked against the top of the upright, it was scrambled out for a corner.

From this set play, Evan Ndicka rose in the crowd to nod in Roma’s equaliser from six yards.

Malen just failed to connect with a Mancini glancing header at the back post, while Svilar parried a Joao Mario attempt after a corner.

On the stroke of half-time, Stephan El Shaarawy bundled into the back of Nadir Zortea and the referee pointed to the spot. Bernardeschi sent Svilar the wrong way to convert and restore Bologna’s advantage.

Malen tested Ravaglia from the edge of the box after the restart, but it was Bologna who added another goal. Rowe chased down a bouncing ball, battling first with Bryan Cristante and then Ndicka to knock it down for Castro to smash a screamer into the roof of the net from the edge of the area.

Roma were also awarded a penalty when Remo Freuler pressured Robinio Vaz, so Malen passed it precisely into the bottom corner past Ravaglia’s fingertips.

Moments later, Ravaglia did get to the Pellegrini free kick at the near top corner, but was beaten when Vaz pulled back to the edge of the area where Pellegrini passed it into the far bottom corner with the inside of the left foot to draw it all level again.

Freuler’s weak finish was smothered by Svilar, while Wesley fired over on the half-volley, but they could not be separated and the tie went to extra time.

Ravaglia immediately flew to palm a Zeki Celik scorcher out from under the bar, while Pellegrini had to track back to stop Riccardo Orsolini going clear.

Bologna again went in front when Nicolò Cambiaghi completed a give and go with Thijs Dallinga to break into the box and drew out Svilar, his snooker shot of a finish going in off the inside of the near post to roll across the line.

Roma 3-4 Bologna aet (4-5 agg)

Rowe 22 (B), Ndicka 32 (R), Bernardeschi pen 45+2 (B), Castro 58 (B), Malen pen 69 (R), Pellegrini 80 (R), Cambiaghi 111 (B)

19-03-2026 20:00

1/8 Final

Stadio Olimpico

Roma

Bologna

0 1

3 - 4

Player statistic

1st half

		22'		Jonathan Rowe (Assist: Santiago Castro)
		26'		Martin Vitik
Evan Ndicka (Assist: Lorenzo Pellegrini)		32'
		45+2'		Federico Bernardeschi

2nd half

Zeki Celik		55'
		58'		Santiago Castro (Assist: Jonathan Rowe)
Donyell Malen		69'
		71'		Nadir Zortea
		76'		Jhon Lucumí
Lorenzo Pellegrini		80'

Extra time

		108'		Remo Freuler
		111'		Nicolò Cambiaghi (Assist: Thijs Dallinga)
		116'		Lewis Ferguson

Roma

Bologna

Starting lineups

99

Mile Svilar

Goalkeeper

5

Evan Ndicka

Defender

23

Gianluca Mancini

Defender

22

Mario Hermoso

Defender

43

Wesley

Defender

19

Zeki Celik

Defender

109'

4

Bryan Cristante

Midfielder

17

Manu Koné

Midfielder

20'

61

Niccolò Pisilli

Midfielder

104'

Donyell Malen

Attacker

92

Stephan El Shaarawy

Attacker

57'

13

Federico Ravaglia

Goalkeeper

26

Jhon Lucumí

Defender

João Mário

Defender

41

Martin Vitik

Defender

73'

20

Nadir Zortea

Defender

11

Jonathan Rowe

Midfielder

73'

19

Lewis Ferguson

Midfielder

8

Remo Freuler

Midfielder

114'

4

Tommaso Pobega

Midfielder

91'

10

Federico Bernardeschi

Attacker

79'

9

Santiago Castro

Attacker

73'

Substitutes

95

Pierluigi Gollini

Goalkeeper

12

Konstantinos Tsimikas

Defender

2

Devyne Rensch

Defender

87

Daniele Ghilardi

Defender

24

Jan Ziolkowski

Defender

70

Giorgio De Marzi

Goalkeeper

8

Neil El Aynaoui

Midfielder

104'

Bryan Zaragoza

Attacker

109'

7

Lorenzo Pellegrini

Midfielder

20'

Robinio Vaz

Attacker

57'

22

Charalampos Lykogiannis

Defender

Simon Sohm

Midfielder

21

Jens Odgaard

Attacker

30

Benja Domínguez

Attacker

25

Massimo Pessina

Goalkeeper

82

Matteo Franceschelli

Goalkeeper

14

Torbjørn Heggem

Defender

114'

16

Nicolò Casale

Defender

73'

28

Nicolò Cambiaghi

Attacker

73'

24

Thijs Dallinga

Attacker

73'

7

Riccardo Orsolini

Attacker

79'

6

Nikola Moro

Midfielder

91'

Paolo Vanoli took Moise Kean’s angry reaction to being substituted during Fiorentina’s 2-1 Conference League win over Rakow as a positive sign rather than a disciplinary concern, insisting the striker’s frustration simply reflected how desperately he wanted to help his side reach the quarter-finals.

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“I am happy because he is an important player,” Vanoli told Sky Sport after the match, with quotes via CalcioMercato.

“When there is that anger and that desire to play, it means he wanted to be there and to help. But I am the coach, and I also have to understand that he is a key player and that we still have nine finals and a passage through the round to think about.”

Vanoli concedes tough game for Fiorentina at Rakow but focuses on challenges ahead

Vanoli was also candid about a difficult first half in which Fiorentina struggled to find their rhythm on a heavy pitch.

“We wanted to play but the surface did not allow it, we were arriving late to second balls and were slow to understand how to get the qualification over the line,” he admitted.

The second half, however, told a very different story, with the Viola coming from behind to seal the win. “This team now has a plus, they know how to react.”

On Kean’s broader value, Vanoli was unequivocal, and his words carry obvious relevance for Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso ahead of the World Cup playoffs.

“The national team coach is better than me, he knows perfectly well that Moise is an important player who wants to help both Fiorentina and the national team. He is a player Italy will need.”

Bologna sporting director Marco Di Vaio has hailed the ‘wonderful journey’ his side have taken through the Europa League as they prepare for a vital second leg against Roma at the Stadio Olimpico.

Di Vaio also singled out experienced forward Federico Bernardeschi as a source of inspiration for his younger teammates in what promises to be an exciting contest.

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It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico at 20.00 GMT (21.00 CET).

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens from this game and Rakow vs. Fiorentina on the Liveblog.

Di Vaio: ‘Bernardeschi can inspire Bologna’

Speaking about Italian winger Bernardeschi, Di Vaio said, with quotes via TuttoMercatoWeb:

“He has experience with Juventus in these types of matches, where he performed very well, and so he can inspire his teammates in the crucial moments of the game. Those who have played in them, like him and Freuler, can help the younger players handle the pressure. Roma are a strong team.”

The first leg ended 1-1 at the Stadio Dall’Ara, so a place in the Europa League quarter-final will all be decided this evening.

Whoever wins will go through to face either Aston Villa or Lille.

The Stadio Olimpico holds fond memories for Bologna, because this is where they beat Milan last season to win the Coppa Italia. It was the club’s first piece of silverware for 51 years and allowed them to qualify for the Europa League too.

Commenting on that match, Di Vaio said “We know it’s a completely different match, we have wonderful memories and we hope to relive them tonight.”

Bologna are coming off a morale-boosting 1-0 Serie A victory away to local rivals Sassuolo, but in that game lost goalkeeper Lukasz Skorupski to injury. It means Federico Ravaglia steps in to take the gloves this evening.

Fiorentina are through to the Conference League quarter-finals after Cher Ndour’s deflected effort and a Marin Pongracic goal from his own half beat Rakow.

They will face either Crystal Palace or AEK Larnaca, as that Round of 16 tie is going to extra time.

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The Viola had a slender 2-1 first leg lead thanks to the last-gasp Albert Gudmundsson penalty in this Round of 16. Moise Kean returned from injury for his first start since March 2, with Niccolò Fortini, Manor Solomon, Luca Lezzerini and Tariq Lamptey injured. Rakow finished second in the league phase of the tournament and won the Polish title in 2023, but again left top scorer Lamine Diaby-Fadiga initially on the bench.

See how it all unfolded on the Liveblog.

Kean made an immediate impact, cutting inside from the left after three minutes for two shots charged down from close range by Stratos Svarnas.

Ivi Lopez tested Oliver Christensen with a free kick at the near post, but the hosts lost Fran Tudor to injury after just 19 minutes.

When Lopez pulled back from the by-line for Jonatan Braut Brunes, the finish from six yards was charged down by Giovanni Fabbian.

Nicolò Fagioli floated a ball over the top for Kean to volley straight at the goalkeeper, then the midfielder went for goal himself on a Fabiano Parisi cross on the stroke of half-time, forcing a save under the crossbar.

Within 22 seconds of the restart, Rakow had taken the lead on the night, drawing level on aggregate 2-2. Karol Struski cut inside Cher Ndour from the left and drilled hard and low into the near bottom corner, surprising Christensen.

Svarnas threw himself in the way of a Giovanni Fabbian strike, with Ndour nodded over from the resulting corner.

The Viola started to pour forward and rack up a series of corners, Ndour unable to tap in from six yards, then Parisi stinging Oliwier Zych’s gloves from the edge of the area.

Roberto Piccoli came so close on 67 minutes when nodding the Robin Gosens cross onto the base of the upright from point-blank range.

The pressure paid off, as after good work from Parisi, the Ndour strike from the edge of the box took a big deflection off teammate Piccoli to wrongfoot the goalkeeper and slot into the far bottom corner, restoring Fiorentina’s advantage on aggregate.

The Viola kept pushing anyway to consolidate their lead overall, Piccoli firing wide from close range and Parisi’s strike skimming the near post.

Zych also had to fly to palm the Fagioli curler out of the top corner from the edge of the area, but there was a huge scare when the referee pointed to the spot for a penalty. He changed his mind following the VAR review and instead booked Brunes for the obvious dive, as there was no contact with Christensen.

Fiorentina were under siege in stoppages, with even Zych going up for a set play, but this left the goal unprotected, and Marin Pongracic on the counter-attack intelligently passed it into the empty net from inside his own half.

Rakow 1-2 Fiorentina (2-4 agg)

Struski 46 (R), Ndour 68 (F), Pongracic 98 (F)

19-03-2026 17:45

1/8 Final

Raków Municipal Stadium

Raków Częstochowa

Fiorentina

1 - 2

Player statistic

2nd half

Stratos Svarnas (Assist: Ivi López)		46'
		68'		Roberto Piccoli (Assist: Cher Ndour)
		71'		Dodô
Leonardo Rocha		85'
		85'		Cher Ndour
Jonatan Braut Brunes		86'
		90+5'		Marin Pongracic
		90+7'		Marin Pongracic (Assist: Albert Gudmundsson)

Match statistic

50

Possession %

50

13

Total shots

21

1

Shots on target

7

3

Shots off target

7

9

Blocked shots

7

2

Corners

5

3

Offsides

1

10

Fouls

11

Raków Częstochowa

Fiorentina

Starting lineups

48

Oliwier Zych

Goalkeeper

25

Bogdan Racovițan

Defender

7

Fran Tudor

Defender

19'

4

Stratos Svarnas

Defender

23

Karol Struski

Midfielder

80'

6

Oskar Repka

Midfielder

10

Ivi López

Attacker

69'

20

Jean Carlos Silva

Attacker

80'

18

Jonatan Braut Brunes

Attacker

19

Michael Ameyaw

Attacker

9

Patryk Makuch

Attacker

79'

Oliver Christensen

Goalkeeper

2

Dodô

Defender

88'

65

Fabiano Parisi

Defender

6

Luca Ranieri

Defender

15

Pietro Comuzzo

Defender

27

Cher Ndour

Midfielder

80

Giovanni Fabbian

Midfielder

22

Jacopo Fazzini

Midfielder

61'

44

Nicolò Fagioli

Midfielder

90'

17

Jack Harrison

Attacker

90'

20

Moise Kean

Attacker

61'

Substitutes

24

Zoran Arsenic

Defender

1

Kacper Trelowski

Goalkeeper

44

Bogdan Mirčetić

Midfielder

35

Mitja Ilenic

31

Dominik Czeremski

21

Jerzy Napieraj

2

Ariel Mosor

Defender

19'

80

Lamine Diaby-Fadiga

Attacker

69'

17

Leonardo Rocha

79'

5

Marko Bulat

Midfielder

80'

11

Adriano

Attacker

80'

43

David de Gea

Goalkeeper

60

Eddy Kouadio

Defender

50

Pietro Leonardelli

Goalkeeper

23

Eman Kospo

Defender

61

Riccardo Braschi

Attacker

62

Luis Balbo

Defender

63

Piergiorgio Bonanno

Midfielder

91

Roberto Piccoli

Attacker

61'

21

Robin Gosens

Midfielder

61'

5

Marin Pongracic

Defender

88'

10

Albert Gudmundsson

Attacker

90'

8

Rolando Mandragora

Midfielder

90'

Roma director Ricky Massara ‘can’t wait to experience’ the Europa League Round of 16 against Bologna, noting the trophy is ‘a target we want to aim for.’

It kicks off at the Stadio Olimpico at 20.00 GMT (21.00 CET).

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You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens from this game and Rakow vs. Fiorentina on the Liveblog.

The first leg ended 1-1 at the Stadio Dall’Ara, so it’s winner takes all today for a place in the quarter-final against either Aston Villa or Lille.

Roma ready for Bologna test

“This is a stadium that can really push the players, there is a great atmosphere, and it will be a wonderful event,” Massara told Sky Sport Italia.

“We can’t wait to experience this match. Roma have a strong ambition in the Europa League, it is a target we want to aim for.

“There are many games to be played from here to the end, starting with a strong Bologna side, so this is going to be difficult.”

Roma have been going through a bit of a rough spell lately, managing only two draws from their last four competitive games and sliding down from fourth in the Serie A table to sixth.

Their progress in the Europa League therefore becomes particularly important, as winning the trophy represents another avenue into Champions League qualification.

“There will be strong motivation this evening from the crowd, but we also need to keep clear heads to deal with many dangers,” added Massara.

“We have confidence, we expect the experienced players to act as guides for the younger ones who aren’t as accustomed to this type of match.”

{rsn-live-v2}

FIGC president Gabriele Gravina has moved to ease concerns over Sandro Tonali’s fitness ahead of Italy’s World Cup playoff semi-final against Northern Ireland, while issuing a passionate rallying cry for the nation to get behind Gennaro Gattuso’s side.

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Speaking at a press conference following the federal council meeting, with quotes via the Corriere dello Sport, Gravina offered cautious but genuine optimism over the Newcastle midfielder’s condition after he was forced off during a recent club match.

“I am rather calm,” he said. “I am in close contact with Gattuso and last night I spoke with Sandro alongside the coach and our doctor De Carli. He was calmer than he was when he left the pitch, there is a concern, but it is at a very moderate level. This morning’s tests were reassuring. We will do everything possible to get him fit, working alongside Newcastle with whom we are in continuous contact.”

Gravina: ‘Italy must push these players to America… even if they have to swim!’

With a World Cup place on the line, Gravina drew explicit parallels with Italy’s triumphant Euro 2020 campaign, invoking the spirit of that summer to galvanise supporters ahead of what he described as a defining week for Italian football.

“Back then I described us as a normal team that could become special if we all felt the pride and belonging of the Azzurri shirt together,” he said. “Our fans helped those players overcome some formidable opponents. We need that same call to arms now, the push from this country must carry these players to America, even if they have to swim there.”

The FIGC president also revealed his own emotional investment in the coming days.

“I am tense, emotions feed me and it is impossible to be indifferent before an appointment this important,” he admitted.

“I will join the squad from the very first moment of their training camp and I will not leave their side for a second. The message will be: let us live this together, as a moment of freedom and serenity, knowing that if we are good the reward will be extraordinary.”

He ended on a note of genuine surprise and delight, confirming that tickets for the playoff had sold out within an hour, something he described as unprecedented in Italian football history.

Inter director Piero Ausilio has reportedly travelled to London, where he has scheduled a meeting with Tottenham goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario.

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It is no secret that Italy international Vicario is Inter’s top goalkeeping target for next season.

Latest Inter transfer updates: Vicario

According to Calciomercato.com, the Nerazzurri director Piero Ausilio has travelled to London to hold talks with the Tottenham star.

Spurs are fighting for Premier League survival, and Vicario is eager to return to Serie A next season.

Calciomercato.com confirms that the Italy international has already given the green light to a move to Inter.

With Yann Sommer’s contract expiring at the end of the season, the Nerazzurri are already preparing to sign a new goalkeeper, and preliminary talks with Vicario’s entourage began some weeks ago.

According to several sources, Tottenham will likely demand a fee between €15m and €20m for Vicario, but if Spurs are relegated to the Championship, their asking price will drop further.

Vicario has conceded 165 goals in 115 games with Tottenham, but won the Europa League with the Premier League club last season.

Reports in Italy claim that medical tests undergone by Sandro Tonali today have ruled out muscle injuries, so the Azzurri star will be available for next week’s World Cup play-off semifinal against Northern Ireland.

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The MRI scan Sandro Tonali underwent on Thursday ruled out any muscle injuries, according to Italian sources, including Gazzetta.

Positive Tonali injury update for Italy and Newcastle

The Newcastle midfielder will therefore be available for Thursday’s World Cup play-off semifinal between Italy and Northern Ireland.

Tonali was forced to be substituted during Newcastle’s Champions League match against Barcelona on Wednesday, raising concerns that he would not be available for Italy’s crucial match next week.

Besides the positive outcome of today’s tests, Tonali no longer feels pain in his left thigh, but he could still miss the upcoming Premier League match against Sunderland to resume training with the Azzurri next week.

Italy coach Gattuso is expected to release his squad list tomorrow, while players will begin preparations in Coverciano on Monday, March 23.

If Italy beat Northern Ireland in the play-off semifinal on March 26, they’ll meet the winner of the Wales-Bosnia Herzegovina match on March 31.

According to Tuttosport, Juventus CEO Damien Comolli has identified Guillaume Restes as the ideal goalkeeping reinforcement for next season, while Luciano Spalletti prefers a more experienced player, such as David de Gea or Emiliano Martinez.

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Juventus will sign a new goalkeeper in the summer, as Michele Di Gregorio has failed to impress in his second season at the club, while Mattia Perin will seek a club that offers him a starting spot.

Juventus looking for new goalkeeper in 2026-27

According to Tuttosport, the top target identified by CEO Comolli is French keeper Restes, who is under contract with Toulouse.

Comolli, a former director and President of the French club, is well aware of Restes’ qualities as the 21-year-old has been playing for Toulouse since he was six.

He has already made 100 appearances for Toulouse’s senior team, and his price tag is around €20m.

Spalletti, however, would rather put this money toward reinforcements in other departments, picking a more experienced goalkeeper instead.

According to the report, Fiorentina’s De Gea, Tottenham’s Guglielmo Vicario and Aston Villa’s Martinez are among the players on Spalletti’s list.

Martinez has reportedly been offered to the Old Lady, who will consider the Argentine’s signature, as long as his wage demands aren’t too high.

Marco Carnesecchi of Atalanta and Liverpool’s Alisson are also highly regarded by Spalletti.

However, Carnesecchi has a high price tag and will sign a contract extension with La Dea in the coming weeks, while Alisson is unlikely to leave Liverpool before the end of his contract in 2027.

Sky Sport Italia reports that Hakan Calhanoglu will be available for Inter’s away game at Fiorentina on Sunday, while Italy international Alessandro Bastoni could return to group training tomorrow.

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Inter are preparing for Sunday’s away game at Fiorentina, and Sky Sport Italia provides the latest injury updates for the Nerazzurri.

Latest Inter injury updates

Calhanoglu has recovered from a calf injury and will be available for selection against Fiorentina.

Serie A’s top goalscorer, Lautaro Martinez, on the other hand, has intensified the workload but has continued to work separately.

If the Argentina international doesn’t return to group training in the next two days, he’ll be ruled out of the next league match.

Italy international Bastoni suffered an injury in the Milan derby and missed the most recent match against Atalanta.

Sky Sport reports that the Italian has partially worked with the team over the last few days, and that he could join his teammates for a full training session tomorrow.

If that is the case, Bastoni will be given the green light for the Fiorentina game as well as Italy’s World Cup play-off semifinal against Northern Ireland on March 26.

Last but not least, Mkhitaryan won’t be available against Fiorentina as he aims to return to action after the break, probably in a home match against his former club, Roma, on Easter.

Fiorentina director Fabio Paratici has reportedly sounded out Fabio Maresca’s availability for next season, but the ex-Chelsea coach is expected to hold out for a Premier League opportunity, particularly from Manchester City if Pep Guardiola departs.

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Fiorentina director Paratici has explored Maresca’s availability for next season, according to a report from TMW.

Fiorentina director Paratici calls Maresca

Maresca has been without a club since the start of January, when he left Chelsea by mutual consent, months after winning the Conference League and the Club World Cup.

According to the report, Paratici has contacted Maresca in recent days, but the Italian tactician remains an unlikely candidate for the job at the Stadio Franchi next season.

Maresca, in fact, will likely wait for offers from the Premier League, particularly from Manchester City if Pep Guardiola were to leave at the end of the season.

Maresca already worked in Guardiola’s Manchester City staff and has built a solid bond with the Spanish tactician.

Tuttomercato adds that Maresca would only consider offers from Juventus and Napoli in Serie A, but the Italian giants are expected to continue with Luciano Spalletti and Antonio Conte, respectively, next season.

Inter striker Ange-Yoan Bonny has decided to represent the Ivory Coast national team, but won’t be available for friendlies against South Korea and Scotland later this month due to a ‘dental issue.’

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Inter striker Bonny, 22, will represent the Ivory Coast national team, coach Émerse Faé confirmed at a press conference (via SOS Fanta).

Ivory Coast coach confirms Bonny’s decision and Inter issue

Bonny was born in Aubervilliers, a suburb of Paris, and is of Ivorian descent.

Bonny represented France at the U19, U20 and U21 levels, but will continue his international career at a senior level with the African country.

Bonny, however, won’t be available for the next two friendly games against South Korea and Scotland during the March break later this month.

“He currently has dental issues, so we preferred to leave him with his club so he can regain full fitness, maintain consistency in his performances and join us at a later stage,” Faé said.

The match against Scotland will be played at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, home to Premier League side Everton, on March 31.

Ivory Coast have qualified for the 2026 World Cup and have been drawn in Group E alongside Ecuador, Germany and Curaçao.

Bonny has scored seven goals in 37 appearances across all competitions with Inter this season, his first one at the Stadio Meazza.

La Gazzetta dello Sport confirms that Guglielmo Vicario is Inter’s main goalkeeping target for 2026-27 and that the Italian is open to returning to Serie A after his relationship with Tottenham reached a low point.

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Inter have identified Italy international Vicario as their main target in goal for next season.

Latest transfer updates on Vicario and Inter

The Nerazzurri are looking for a new starting goalkeeper for 2026-27, and previous reports suggested they would hold a new round of talks with the Tottenham star’s agents this month.

According to Gazzetta, Vicario has already informed his agents that he’d be happy to return to Serie A, particularly at Inter, which he was already close to joining in 2023 before his switch from Empoli to Tottenham.

Gazzetta highlights that Vicario’s relationship with Spurs reached a low point in recent months, so the Nerazzurri are confident they can reach an agreement with the Premier League side, who are currently fighting to avoid relegation. 

Inter, however, are aware that Tottenham’s asking price will be between €15m and €20m next summer, provided they remain in the Premier League.

Inter are not expected to offer a contract extension to Yann Sommer, although the club could change their mind and keep the Swiss international as a second-choice goalkeeper next season if they receive offers for Josep Martinez.

Como are ‘deeply saddened’ by the death of one of their owners, Michael Bambang Hartono: ‘Under the family’s leadership, the Club have entered a new chapter in their history.’

Michael Bambang Hartono, one of the owners of Serie A side Como, died on Thursday, the club announced in a statement.

“Como 1907 is deeply saddened by the passing of Michael Bambang Hartono,” the Azzurri said.

“We extend our sincere condolences to the Hartono family and to all at the Djarum Group.

“Under the family’s leadership, the Club has entered a new chapter in its history, and we remember him with gratitude and respect.”

Como 1907 is deeply saddened by the passing of Michael Bambang Hartono.

We extend our sincere condolences to the Hartono family and to all at the Djarum Group.

Under the family’s leadership, the Club has entered a new chapter in its history, and we remember him with gratitude… pic.twitter.com/o9YGHm7qiu

— Como1907 (@Como_1907) March 19, 2026

Michael and his brother Robert acquired the club in 2019, when the team was playing in Italy’s third division, Serie C.

They returned to Serie A in 2024 after 21 years and are now fighting for Champions League qualification, sitting fourth in the league table.

As reported by Gazzetta, the Hartono brothers have a combined net worth of $43.8 billion, making them the richest in Indonesia.

Italy star Sandro Tonali will undergo an MRI scan today to learn the extent of a muscle injury suffered during Wednesday’s Champions League match against Barcelona.

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Italy and Newcastle will wait for the outcome of Tonali’s medical tests today, Gazzetta reports.

The Italian midfielder was forced to be substituted during the second half of a Champions League match against Barcelona on Wednesday due to a suspected muscle injury.

Newcastle coach Eddie Howe admitted after the match that Tonali is in doubt for the next Premier League fixture against Sunderland, but the Italy national team is even more concerned as the Azzurri will play in the World Cup play-off next week.

The Azzurri will host Northern Ireland in the semi-final in Bergamo on March 26, and if they progress to the Final, they’ll play away against Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Tonali was one of the Italy players with a guaranteed spot in the squad and in the starting XI, so coach Gennaro Gattuso will be hoping for good news from Newcastle today.

Italy World Cup winner Luca Toni praised Harry Kane following Bayern Munich’s 4-1 win over Atalanta last night: ‘Coming from a top No.9 like you, it’s special words,’ the English forward replied.

Kane scored twice in Bayern Munich’s 4-1 win over Atalanta on Wednesday, contributing to the Bavarians’ 10-2 win on aggregate.

Kane reacts to Bayern 4-1 Atalanta

During his post-match interview with Prime Video Italia, Kane said he was “proud” of his goals, especially the second one.

“It’s one of my favourite goals in my career,” said the English star.

“It’s a mixture of skill, technique, balance and obviously, the finish as well. In the moment, it felt really special.”

Ex-Italy and Bayern Munich star Toni commented on the game as a pundit for Prime Video and told Kane: “I’m in love with him in footballing terms, because he’s one of the last physical centre-forwards. There are many false nines, but he’s the best centre-forward in the world right now.”

The Bayern Munich star replied: “I appreciate it. Coming from a top No.9 like you, it’s special words, thank you.”

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Un post condiviso da Prime Video Sport IT (@primevideosportit)

La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Milan are ready to offer Leon Goretzka a €5m-a-year contract until 2029, while Lazio’s Mario Gila is the Rossoneri’s top defensive target for the summer.

Milan are preparing to strengthen their team for 2026-27, when they’ll likely return to the Champions League.

Latest Milan transfer updates on Goretzka and Gila

The club’s main target for the summer is a centre-forward, but the Serie A giants will sign at least one player in each department.

As for the central midfield, free agent Leo Goretzka has long been on the club’s radar.

Milan’s domestic rivals, Juventus, are also interested in Goretzka and have already opened preliminary talks with his entourage. Still, according to Gazzetta, Milan hope to beat the Bianconeri with an offer worth €5m per season for the next three years.

Milan’s main target in defence is Lazio’s Gila, whose contract expires in 2027. The former Real Madrid Academy player is unwilling to extend with the Biancocelesti, so he could leave in the summer for €20m to €25m.

Igli Tare, now a Milan director, is on excellent terms with the defender’s entourage, as he was the one bringing Gila to the Olimpico in 2022.

Donyell Malen’s Roma and Santiago Castro’s Bologna meet at the Stadio Olimpico tonight in the second leg of the Europa League Round of 16.

It kicks off at 21:00 CET (20:00 GMT). The first leg in Bologna last week ended in a 1-1 draw.

Roma are still short of options in attack with Artem Dovbyk, Evan Ferguson, Paulo Dybala and Matias Soulé injured and Lorenzo Venturino out of the UEFA list.

Bologna are without the suspended Juan Miranda, as well as Lorenzo De Silvestri and Eivind Helland, who are not part of the Rossoblu’s European squad.

Multiple sources, including Sky Sport Italia and Gazzetta, claim that Stephan El Shaarawy will start as an attacking midfielder for Roma, leaving Lorenzo Pellegrini on the bench.

Italiano will look to Tommaso Pobega, Lewis Ferguson and Remo Freuler in central midfield, and to Federico Bernardeschi, Castro and Jonathan Rowe up front.

The winner will face Aston Villa or Lille in the quarter-finals.

Roma vs. Bologna – where to watch on TV

The match will be broadcast live on TNT Sports 8 in the UK and Ireland and on Paramount+ in the USA. Football Italia will provide live updates via a live blog.

Roma vs. Bologna – probable line-ups

Roma (3-4-2-1): Svilar; Mancini, Ndicka, Hermoso; Celik, Kone, Pisilli, Wesley; Cristante, El Shaarawy; Malen. 

Bologna (4-3-3): Ravaglia; Zortea, Vitik, Lucumì, Joao Mario; Ferguson, Freuler, Pobega; Bernardeschi, Castro, Rowe.

La Gazzetta dello Sport

Chivu and Spalletti move

Inter, assault on Vicario

Juve, Kolo with Vlahovic

Goretzka and Gila for a new devil

Big Milan market

Allegri’s choices: a three-year deal for the German to overtake Juve. The Lazio centre-back has convinced everyone.

Tonali, World Cup anxiety

Injured with Newcastle, Italy is on alert for the play-off

We have the derby left

Roma-Bologna (21), the second leg resumes from 1-1. Fiorentina (18:45) defends a 2-1 lead against Rakow.

Ruthless Bayern, Atalanta concede four more

Germans with Real in the quarter-finals, Liverpool will face PSG

Corriere dello Sport

Europa League verdict

64,000 at the Olimpico for Roma-Bologna: it’s the 22nd derby of Italy. It restarts from 1-1. The winner will face Aston Villa or Lille. Kick-off at 21:00 CET.

In & Out

Gasp against Italiano, challenge for the quarter-finals

Gian Piero: ‘Conscience clear.’ Wesley: ‘Red card against Como? Serious and unacceptable incident.’ Castro launches the challenge to Malen. Vincenzo: ‘They are favourites.’ Bernardeschi and Rowe in the trident.

Conference: Viola 2 to eliminate Rakow (18:45).

Juve move: Alisson on target

Inter bring Stankovic Jr. back home

Leao and Milan: unstable relationship

Premier Napoli: Conte’s assault

Bovo emotion: ‘Unique happiness.’

He scored with Watford after 506 days from the last time: ‘I missed it.’

Atalanta, another collapse. Osi out.

Tuttosport

Juve, first issue

Comolli likes restes, Spalletti, somebody like De Gea

The choice of the next goalkeeper reflects a difference of opinion between the director, fascinated by the Frenchman from Toulouse, and the coach, who would rather go for a more experienced goalkeeper, such as the Spaniard Vicario or Dibu Martinez. Alisson and Carnesecchi are the dreams. Manninger: ‘I’d trust one between Di Gregorio and Perin.’ Lucio waits for Chiellini’s return to define the renewal: the salary could rise to 6m.

Toro, pathway for Livakovic

Seven Barcelona goals, Tonali anxiety

Injury for the Azzurro: alarm ahead of the World Cup play-off. Ruthless Bayern: another goal-fest against Atalanta.

Raffaele Palladino admits Atalanta changed their gameplan and were still swept aside by Bayern Munich in the Champions League. ‘We faced probably the best side in Europe right now.’

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La Dea knew that their chances of qualification were slim to non-existent after the 6-1 first leg defeat, but wanted to give a better account of themselves at the Allianz Arena.

They were only 1-0 down at half-time here to a Harry Kane penalty, but the England international scored again after the restart, followed by Lennart Karl’s angled drive moments later.

A Luis Diaz chip and late Lazar Samardzic header rounded out the scoreline of 4-1 on the night, 10-2 on aggregate.

Palladino recognises Bayern Munich strength

“We wanted to play with pride, we changed our gameplan and tried to sit a bit deeper, giving our all against a very strong team,” Palladino told Sky Sport Italia.

“I have to compliment Bayern Munich, Vincent Kompany, the whole club, because we probably faced the best side in Europe right now. You’ve got to just be honest and accept the result on the pitch.”

Nearly 4,000 Atalanta fans made the journey from Italy for this match, and had the added difficulty of a local transport strike affecting their trip to the stadium.

“We tried to give our all, the objective was to salute our many fans with a better result than the first leg, and they were again fantastic tonight,” added Palladino.

The coach had attempted some experiments for the first leg, including a four-man defence, so did he have regrets over that approach or did Atalanta learn valuable lessons for the future?

“Hindsight is easy, we probably could’ve done some things differently, but then today we had a different plan and sat deeper, but it didn’t change a lot. Bayern Munich are a complete squad in every sense, they will always find a way to play through you and break you down,” insisted Palladino.

“We learned a great deal in these two matches, because playing at this level forces you to step up and accept your limitations with great humility. We have to congratulate our opponents.”

Atalanta were the only remaining Italian representatives in the Champions League and now they are out, so what is the difficulty compared to these other European contenders?

“The biggest difference is how quickly the ball moves around,” explained Palladino.

“You might not notice it as much on television, but up close you see how quickly it is passed, they always pass it onto the correct foot, they control at pace, shake off defenders and also have peaks of sprinting speed that is higher.

“I think we have to change from the youth academies, because when we play teams like Bayern Munich, it seems like a different sport. We’ve all got to focus more on individuals and these basics from the early years, because there is a clear difference.”

La Dea are the only side who managed to get through the play-offs, eliminating Borussia Dortmund 4-1 in the second leg after losing the first 2-0.

Atalanta were also the only Serie A side still in three competitions, as the first leg of the Coppa Italia semi-final with Lazio ended 2-2.

“We have the Coppa Italia, which is an objective we care about, because we want to bring silverware to Bergamo and Atalanta got so close to winning several times in recent years without managing it, so that would be a dream,” commented Palladino.

“At the same time, it is also worth direct access to the Europa League. We also have Serie A, and the next two rounds against Verona and Lecce, then there are head-to-heads with Roma, Juventus and Bologna.

“We know that we started from way back, I arrived and we were in 13^th place, now we are in seventh, so we’ve made that climb up, I will continue to ask a lot from my players, because it’s still wide open to the end.”

Marten de Roon celebrates a new Atalanta record and calls Bayern Munich the ‘favourites to win the Champions League, we have much to learn from them.’

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A miracle was required after losing the first leg 6-1 at home, and La Dea only conceded in Munich from a retaken Harry Kane penalty.

However, Kane struck again after the restart, with Lennart Karl’s angled drive and a Luis Diaz lob on the counter-attack, with Lazar Samardzic late on grabbing a consolation goal by nodding in the corner.

De Roon makes Atalanta history tonight

“Thank you to the fans who came here to support us, and fortunately we managed to score a goal here too,” De Roon told Amazon Prime Video Italia.

He came off the bench for his 435^th appearance in the Atalanta jersey, equalling the club record set by Gianpaolo Bellini.

“It is a great achievement, 435 is a lot of games, but I don’t want to stop here, I want to keep going. It is an honour to have played so many times for Atalanta.”

This means Bayern Munich will face Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-finals, with PSG vs. Liverpool, Barcelona-Atletico Madrid and Arsenal against Sporting CP.

“We have a lot to learn from this team,” noted De Roon. “We tried to press them at home and that didn’t work, so today we sat deeper, and they still scored four goals.

“We played against a truly extraordinary opponent, we’ve learned from this and have to lift our heads again straight away in Serie A.”

La Dea were the only remaining Italian team in the Champions League, so it is disappointing to see them swept aside 10-2 on aggregate.

“Italian teams have much to learn from these sides, in their movements and their pace. We are too static, too tactical, and even the referees in Europe let play flow much better without stopping and starting all the time,” explained De Roon.

“Today, Kane was playing as a striker, a right-back and a left-back at different times. You have to run so much to keep up.

“I think Bayern Munich are the favourites to win the Champions League, they impressed me so much tonight, and that was without Jamil Musiala, Michael Olise and Joshua Kimmich. We’ve got to be as humble as they are.”

Atalanta have plenty to focus on, as the first leg of the Coppa Italia semi-final with Lazio ended 2-2, while they are still in the fight for European places in Serie A.

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe confirms Italy international Sandro Tonali ‘has a groin, sort of hip problem’ after going off injured against Barcelona.

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The midfielder was in the starting XI at Camp Nou for tonight’s Champions League clash, but was forced off clutching the side of his left thigh following a crunching tackle.

Newcastle United went on to lose 7-2 on the night and were eliminated from the Round of 16.

Tonali concern grows for Italy

With the World Cup play-offs coming up against Northern Ireland, Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso will be anxious to know if the problem for Tonali is serious.

Speaking to the media after the match, Newcastle manager Howe was asked if Tonali was a doubt for this weekend’s game against Sunderland.

“Yeah, I’d say he’s a doubt,” replied Howe.

“It looks like he’s got a groin, sort of hip problem. I thought he performed really well in the first half and we really missed him in that second period.”

Italy have already lost Mattia Zaccagni today for the World Cup play-offs, as the Lazio wide attacker was ruled out for several weeks by a muscular injury.

Marco Verratti, who had been tipped for a potential call-up, has also sustained an injury and will not be available for the Azzurri.

Atalanta are out of the Champions League after another rough night with Bayern Munich, as Harry Kane scored twice in a 4-1 result on the night, 10-2 on aggregate.

The 6-1 first leg defeat in Bergamo meant a miracle was needed to reach the quarter-finals, but La Dea made the trip without suspended Yunus Musah, giving Charles De Ketelaere his first start since meniscus damage on February 5, with Giacomo Raspadori back on the bench. Bayern had Joshua Kimmich and Michael Olise banned, plus Manuel Neuer, Sven Ulreich, Leon Klanac, Alphonso Davies and Jamal Musiala injured. Goalkeeper Jonas Urbig recovered from concussion to take the gloves.

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See how it all unfolded on the Liveblog.

Luis Diaz pounced on a poor Isak Hien header back, but couldn’t find the net from a tight angle, while Raphael Guerreiro scuffed a finish straight at Marco Sportiello.

Pavlovic stung Sportiello’s gloves from the edge of the area, but VAR intervened when Giorgio Scalvini charged down a Kane volley with his elbow when trying to turn and tuck the arm into his body.

VAR was involved again because when Sportiello parried the Kane penalty, it was confirmed he was off his line, so it had to be retaken and this time Kane sent him the wrong way to convert.

Scalvini volleyed off target from the edge of the area, then nodded down a cross for Mario Pasalic to force a desperate one-handed save from point-blank range at the near post.

An acrobatic Gianluca Scamacca volley and Raoul Bellanova low drive were straight at Jonas Urbig after the restart, but Guerreiro steered wide of the near post with the inside of the left foot.

Kane added a second when he somehow managed to squirm between Hien and Odilon Kossounou to then in one sweeping motion fire into the far top corner.

Harry Kane gets his 50th Champions League goal in some style @tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/Ons2nM9PTs

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) March 18, 2026

Moments later there was a third, as debutant Deniz Ofli robbed Bellanova and Bayern moved it quickly from left to right, Luis Diaz finding the Lennart Karl angled drive relatively undisturbed.

Atalanta thought they had a penalty on the hour mark when ex-Napoli defender Kim Min-jae blocked a Kamaldeen Sulemana cross and it flicked up onto his arm. However, VAR evaluated and suggested the arm was in a natural position.

Pasalic had a free header on Bernasconi’s cross, but nodded it into the ground and made it easy for Urbig from a very promising position.

Moments later, Scamacca stumbled to spark a deadly counter-attack, as Luis Diaz out-sprinted Kossounou and chipped the on-rushing Sportiello into an empty net.

Luis Diaz with a perfect chip to score Bayern Munich's TENTH goal of their Champions League round of 16 tie against Atalanta @tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/n6YzhDT7B7

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) March 18, 2026

Atalanta still had some chances, as Bellanova got away down the right and forced a save at the near post, and from the resulting corner Scalvini nodded over.

Just like in the first leg, Atalanta fans had something to cheer when Raspadori’s corner was flicked on by Pasalic for the Lazar Samardzic header at the back post.

Bayern Munich march on and will face Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-finals.

Bayern Munich 4-1 Atalanta (10-2 agg)

Kane pen 25, 54 (B), Karl 56 (B), Luis Diaz 70 (B), Samardzic 85 (A)

18-03-2026 20:00

1/8 Final

Allianz Arena

Bayern

Atalanta

4 - 1

Player statistic

1st half

Harry Kane

25'

2nd half

Harry Kane (Assist: Josip Stanisic)		54'
Lennart Karl (Assist: Luis Díaz)		56'
Luis Díaz (Assist: Lennart Karl)		70'
		85'		Lazar Samardžić (Assist: Mario Pasalic)

Match statistic

70

Possession %

30

25

Total shots

14

8

Shots on target

8

9

Shots off target

5

8

Blocked shots

1

6

Corners

3

1

Offsides

3

8

Fouls

4

Bayern

Atalanta

Starting lineups

40

Jonas Urbig

Goalkeeper

4

Jonathan Tah

Defender

44

Josip Stanisic

Defender

72'

3

Min-jae Kim

Defender

22

Raphaël Guerreiro

Defender

83'

45

Aleksandar Pavlovic

Midfielder

56'

42

Lennart Karl

Midfielder

8

Leon Goretzka

Midfielder

20

Tom Bischof

Midfielder

72'

9

Harry Kane

Attacker

72'

14

Luis Díaz

Attacker

57

Marco Sportiello

Goalkeeper

42

Giorgio Scalvini

Defender

83'

4

Isak Hien

Defender

47

Lorenzo Bernasconi

Defender

3

Odilon Kossounou

Defender

16

Raoul Bellanova

Defender

13

Éderson

Midfielder

58'

7

Kamaldeen Sulemana

Midfielder

71'

8

Mario Pasalic

Midfielder

17

Charles De Ketelaere

Attacker

58'

9

Gianluca Scamacca

Attacker

71'

Substitutes

2

Dayot Upamecano

Defender

27

Konrad Laimer

Midfielder

41

Vincent Manuba

Defender

37

Leonard Prescott

35

Jannis Bartl

34

Deniz Ofli

56'

7

Serge Gnabry

Attacker

72'

11

Nicolas Jackson

Attacker

72'

43

Filip Pavić

72'

21

Hiroki Ito

Defender

83'

59

Nicola Zalewski

Midfielder

77

Davide Zappacosta

Defender

31

Francesco Rossi

Goalkeeper

19

Berat Djimsiti

Defender

29

Marco Carnesecchi

Goalkeeper

5

Mitchel Bakker

Defender

23

Sead Kolasinac

Defender

10

Lazar Samardžić

Midfielder

58'

15

Marten de Roon

Midfielder

58'

Giacomo Raspadori

Attacker

71'

90

Nikola Krstovic

Attacker

71'

69

Honest Ahanor

Defender

83'

Vincenzo Italiano insists ‘it is an honour for Bologna to be’ in the Europa League last 16 and warns ‘the value of the Roma squad is higher in every way.’

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It is all to play for after the first leg ended 1-1, and is decided at the Stadio Olimpico on Thursday at 20.00 GMT (21.00 CET).

This stadium has fond memories for the Rossoblu, as they beat Milan last season to win the Coppa Italia Final here, their first piece of silverware in over 50 years.

Italiano notes Bologna progress

“That match is what allowed us to be here, and it is an indelible memory for all of us,” said Italiano in his press conference.

“We are here, we’ve honoured this competition with many strong performances and deservedly getting through the play-offs.

“It was our objective to reach this stage and now we are here against a strong opponent, in a passionate atmosphere. We will try to have our say and do everything we can to cause them problems.”

Italiano had said after the first leg that the 1-1 result meant Roma had a 51 per cent chance of going through.

“I stand by that, we have to give triple our potential to get through. We have to be realistic, the objective was to reach the last 16 and we achieved it, so we should be happy just being here and we celebrated after the group stage with an enormous cake.

“I’ve been in European football for a few years now, I know the Europa League is tough. There are top teams like Porto, Aston Villa, Stuttgart, Lyon, so it’s an honour for Bologna to be here.”

Bologna are out of the Coppa Italia and struggling in Serie A, so trying to go as far as possible in the Europa League is also a target for the season.

“It is an important game that can give us a boost going into the final weeks of the season, but it is not a crossroads. We know who we are and what we want,” assured Italiano.

“When you face Roma here, the atmosphere is different. We already experienced that and know what to expect, along with the added enjoyment of playing in Europe.

“We won’t let ourselves be intimidated, it is going to be an intense match and we need quality. It’s always a game with intensity if Gian Piero Gasperini is the coach.”

Italiano is eager to point out that if any Serie A side is going to aim for Europa League triumph, it is probably Roma.

“The value of their squad is higher than ours, in every way. It is proved by their position in the Serie A table, by the level of their individual players, and then add in the atmosphere.

“It’s a game where both sides need a victory, so there can be no calculations, we have to play an open and attacking match. Quality makes the difference.”

Raffaele Palladino insists Atalanta are ‘proud to represent Italy’ in the Champions League against Bayern Munich and ‘will never forget’ how their fans reacted after a 6-1 defeat.

It kicks off at the Allianz Arena in Munich at 20.00 GMT (21.00 CET).

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

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Although we saw some remarkable comebacks in the Champions League in recent years, recovering from a 6-1 home defeat would require a sporting miracle.

The main focus for La Dea here is to give a better account of themselves than in the first leg and play with pride, especially as almost 4,000 fans made the trip to Germany.

Palladino inspired by Atalanta fans

“It’s fantastic to be here and we are so proud to be playing in this stadium against such a strong opponent. We are proud to represent Italy as the only side in the Round of 16, and to see so many of our fans come here to be with us,” Palladino told Sky Sport Italia.

“We will never forget that they applauded us after the final whistle of that 6-1 defeat, we want to play for them, and hope tonight to go under the away end to salute them with a better result.”

Yunus Musah is suspended this evening and Giacomo Raspadori is back on the bench, but Charles De Ketelaere gets his first start since suffering meniscus damage in his knee on February 5.

There is also a change in goal, with Marco Sportiello preferred to Marco Carnesecchi.

“I believe in all my lads, from first to last, I reward them for what they show me in training. Sportiello knows this competition, he is an extraordinary guy and he deserved this opportunity tonight,” explained Palladino.

It has not been a great period for Atalanta in general, as their last victory was the 4-1 Champions League result against Borussia Dortmund on February 25.

That was followed by three draws and two defeats between Serie A, the Coppa Italia and Europe.

“We won’t forget that we conceded six goals in the first leg, so naturally we want to prove ourselves. We know that we are up against one of the strongest teams in Europe, but we want to challenge ourselves and grow with this experience.

“Above all, we want to play for our fans and give them something to cheer this evening. We will sweat through that shirt tonight.”

{rsn-live-v2}

Paolo Vanoli confirms Moise Kean ‘is ready to play’ for Fiorentina in the Conference League trip to Rakow. ‘I’ll only say I’m satisfied when we have definitively achieved our objective.’

The first leg saw the Viola turn it around to win 2-1 in stoppages with a last-gasp Albert Gudmundsson penalty.

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The decider is at the Zaglebiowski Park Sportowy in Sosnowiec on Thursday, kicking off at 17.45 GMT (18.45 CET).

They are fresh off Monday’s 4-1 Serie A win away to Cremonese, which dragged them clear of the relegation zone.

Vanoli sees Fiorentina on right track

“Winning helps to boost your self-esteem, it was a very important match and we won thanks to a great performance,” said the coach in his press conference.

“Now we’ve got to remember that is in the past, and tomorrow we are playing for qualification against a side that caused us quite a few problems in the first leg.

“We need to recharge the batteries, mentally as much as physically, and I think the result in Cremona will help us to do that.”

The big question marks are over the fitness levels of Kean, who has struggled in recent weeks with a recurring ankle issue.

“Moise was on the bench in Cremona, which means he was available. We’ll decide tomorrow if he plays from the start or comes off the bench, but he is ready to play,” assured Vanoli.

“I am not looking further ahead than tomorrow’s game. We care about this competition, we must respect it and will do our best to get through to the next round. As always, I’ll choose the best possible line-up.

“Even when we were in a more difficult moment in Serie A, I always said we had to take it one game at a time. We have an objective, we are against a side that defends ruggedly and can counter-attack dangerously, so we must be concentrated.

“We’ve seen that such a slender advantage counts for little at international level. What we need is to recognise that nobody dominates for 90 minutes, there are matches within matches, and if you go behind then you must have the clear head to turn it around, or to control an advantage in those situations.”

Fiorentina had won 3-0 away to Jagiellonia in the Conference League play-offs, then lost by the same result at home, squeezing through in extra time.

Now they are back in Poland and this time have the advantage from the first leg at the Stadio Franchi.

“They have different playing styles in possession, but what unites them is how aggressive they are going forward,” explained Vanoli.

“Jagiellonia have more technique and quality, Rakow are more physical and love to run into space, but also defend very well. Polish football is growing and these are teams who made their mark on the international stage in recent years.”

Vanoli was drafted in by Fiorentina to replace Stefano Pioli on November 7, so how would the coach judge his work so far after nine wins, six draws and 11 defeats in all competition?

“My work only ends once the season is finished, and then we can judge together. Since I arrived, we’ve had ups and downs on this journey, and Fiorentina probably doesn’t deserve to be in this situation, but we did well to recognise where we were.

“It took a while to understand how to turn things around, but the victory against Cremonese was another step forward, even though there are still another 10 points we need to pick up to secure safety.

“I will only say I’m satisfied when we have definitively achieved our objective.”

CONVOCATI pic.twitter.com/Td3kNm39bq

— ACF Fiorentina (@acffiorentina) March 18, 2026

Lazio winger Mattia Zaccagni picked up a muscular injury during his side’s recent 1-0 win against Milan and is now expected to miss Italy’s crucial World Cup play-off campaign coming up at the end of the month according to the latest updates. 

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Zaccagni ruled out of crucial Italy and Lazio fixtures

Lazio have confirmed in a statement on Wednesday that Zaccagni is due for a spell on the sidelines after picking up an injury in Serie A on Sunday evening. 

“During the Lazio-Milan league match, Mattia Zaccagni suffered a medium-scale post-traumatic muscular injury to the vastus medialis and vastus intermedius of his right thigh. The player has already started the recovery protocol,” Lazio’s statement read. 

Zaccagni’s injury is expected to rule him out of Italy’s upcoming World Cup play-off campaign, which kicks off on March 26, according to Wednesday’s reports. 

As per Calciomercato, Zaccagni is likely to miss around a month of action, which rules him out of the upcoming international break, plus potential club matches against Bologna, Parma, Fiorentina and Napoli. 

It isn’t a case of his season being over, but Zaccagni is unlikely to return to the Bancocelesti starting line-up until the final few matches of the campaign. 

La Gazzetta dello Sport notes that Bodo/Glimt played in ‘an old-school Italian style’ against Sporting CP in the Champions League, prompting some regret for Inter, as the perception of the Norwegian side appears to have been overstated.

Bodo/Glimt had eliminated Serie A giants Inter from the Champions League knockout play-off, but faced elimination in the Round of 16 on Tuesday, after a 5-0 loss away at Sporting CP.

Bodo/Glimt’s ‘Catenaccio’ against Sporting CP

Bodo had won the first leg against the Portuguese side 3-0, but suffered an incredible comeback in the second leg, with Sporting scoring three times in 90 minutes and two more in extra time.

“In Lisbon, Bodo set themselves up like in the first half at San Siro. Compact in defence, dug in behind in a fairly deliberate Catenaccio,” examined Gazzetta journalist Sebastiano Vernazza.

“Sporting CP, however, attacked with ferocity, forcing them to defend in the final 30 meters. Unlike Inter in the return leg in Milan, Sporting CP did an excellent job of preventing any counterattacks.”

Inter lost both games against Bodo, first by 3-1 in Norway, and then 2-1 at San Siro. In the second leg in Milan, Bodo had remained very cautious, just like against Sporting CP on Tuesday.

“Bodo played in an old-school Italian style, just as they had in the first half at San Siro,” the journalist continued.

“In Milan, though, Inter had gifted the 1-0 in the second half with a misplaced pass by Akanji, and that effectively ended the tie. This time, it went differently. The defensive approach didn’t pay off because there were no counterattacks.

“The narrative around Bodo has been exaggerated. It’s been described as something it is not: an innovative team. Bodo play an adaptive kind of football. They aim to wear down the opponent and then strike on the break,” the Gazzetta journalist concluded.

“Inter can dwell on their regrets. Bodo was not an insurmountable obstacle. However, had Inter gone through, they would have suffered against Sporting CP, and that’s another aspect to consider.

“After the Bodo-Sporting CP pairing was drawn, many thought Chivu and his players had missed a great chance to reach the quarter-finals. That would not have been the case.”

Inter remain the Serie A table leaders with an eight-point lead over second-placed Milan with nine league games remaining.

Gian Piero Gasperini insists that there is ‘no clear difference’ between the two sides as Roma prepare to host Bologna for the second leg of their Europa League round of 16 tie at the Stadio Olimpico on Thursday evening. 

Gasperini previes Roma vs. Bologna second leg: ‘Attention is crucial’

The tie is level at the halfway stage after a 1-1 draw between the two sides at the Dall’Ara last Thursday. The winner of tomorrow’s decider will go on to face either Lille or Aston Villa in the quarter-finals. 

Roma have been the stronger of the two sides over in Serie A this season, leading Bologna by nine points and two positions in the league table, but Vincenzo Italiano’s side boast the better form, with four wins from their last five league matches, while Roma have only won once in that period. 

Concerningly for the Giallorossi, Manu Kone, who missed out on the first leg last week, is a doubt again ahead of the second leg. 

“There’s a little risk and a bit of precaution, we’ll see. Kone’s doing a bit worse,” head coach Gasperini said during his pre-match press conference on Wednesday. 

• Read more: Wesley insists ‘it wasn’t a foul’ after controversial red card in Como 2-1 Roma

Gasperini went on to describe tomorrow’s match as: “A decisive game, different from the league. There’s no draw. There’s a possibility of going beyond the 90 minutes. These are different games that always fascinate me.” 

Gasperini was also asked for his thoughts on Roma’s recent slump in Serie A results. 

“Fans’ reactions must be accepted,” he said. “We have to work to our best, get results and bring happiness to the supporters. We have the complete commitment of the players and we are calm. What they’re doing is positive. 

“We’ve also had some good games over these last 40 days. Of course, there have been games where we’ve gone under a little. We had some personnel difficulties, but these aren’t excuses. In Genoa and Como, there were also incidents that impacted the games. 

“Now we’re not in our best moment, we’ve had to pay for injuries and various other situations, but we’ve never had the wrong attitude. We might have players who don’t play well at times, but there’s another game tomorrow and we want to do our best.” 

Reverting his attention to the task at hand in the Europa League, Gasperini said: “These are games where incidents can be even more decisive. 

“This is the second leg, so attention is crucial. It’s like a final, a one-off match. We have to be solid and connected. I think these are two teams that can bring a bit of pride to our (Italian) football in this situation.” 

On the role that the Stadio Olimpico crowd will have to play tomorrow night, Gasperini said: “It’s always been red hot. There might be something even more tomorrow given the importance of the game.” 

And on Stephan El Shaarawy, he added: “He was out for 40 days. He’s had a couple of weeks of recovery, he played on Sunday. We won’t be able to count on Venturino tomorrow either. We make choices based on who’s available. Stephan could be a crucial player.” 

Lastly, Gasperini was asked what he makes of the opinions from the Bologna camp that Roma remain the favourites heading into Thursday’s second leg. 

“The ambition is the same for everyone,” he insisted. “Bologna are behind in the league but are recovering now. They were in the Champions League last year. There’s no clear difference between the two teams. We understand the importance of the game.” 

Newcastle and Aston Villa have reportedly made Marcus Thuram aware of their interest ahead of a potential summer move, with the Inter striker said to favour a switch to the Premier League over the Saudi Pro League.

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Premier League sides Newcastle and Aston Villa have already made initial approaches in their pursuit of Inter star Thuram, according to FcInternews.

Aston Villa and Newcastle interested in Thuram

Thuram is in his third season at the Stadio Meazza, and multiple sources in Italy have claimed that both the Nerazzurri and the French forward will likely seek a fresh start in the summer.

There have been reports of interest from Saudi Pro League clubs, but according to FCInternews, Thuram would prefer a move to the English Premier League.

Thuram has scored 12 goals and provided five assists in 35 games across all competitions this season, and his contract includes an €85m release clause. The 28-year-old, however, has only scored once in his last nine Serie A appearances.

Thuram is said to be fully focused on the final part of the season with Inter, after which he’ll decide on his future with the club.

Thuram’s contract at the Stadio Meazza runs out in June 2028.

Roma wing-back Wesley Franca insists that the incident that led to his sending off during Saturday’s Serie A defeat against Como ‘wasn’t a foul’, and says that the Giallorossi need ‘100% concentration’ if they are to overcome Bologna in the Europa League on Thursday night. 

Wesley reacts to Como red and previews Bologna second leg

The Brazilian wideman joined head coach Gian Piero Gasperini for Wednesday’s pre-match press conference ahead of the second leg of the Europa League round of 16 tie between Roma and Bologna at the Stadio Olimpico on Thursday night. The tie is currently level after a 1-1 draw at the Dall’Ara last week. 

For Wesley, this was also an opportunity to review his most recent Serie A match. Roma were beaten 2-1 away against Como in a massive game in the race for the Champions League positions, and the Brazilian was controversially sent off just over an hour in with the scores still level at 1-1. 

Wesley was sent off for a second bookable offence, but he insists that there was no foul in his clash with Como’s Assane Diao. 

Like the incident that led to Pierre Kalulu’s wrongful sending off in the Derby d’Italia between Juventus and Inter in February, the incident could not be referred to VAR for review as it was a second yellow card offence and not a straight red. For the same reason, neither Kalulu nor Wesley’s suspensions were overturned either. 

“It wasn’t a foul. I was aware I was on a booking and didn’t want a red,” Wesley protested (via TMW). 

“I was on his side, leaning on him because he was falling on top of me. I was convinced afterwards that I hadn’t committed a foul, but for others, I did. It was a decisive incident which changed the game.” 

Moving on from the Como incident, Wesley went on to explain why he has been able to hit the ground running so comfortably in Italy after joining Roma from Flamengo over the summer. 

“Italian football is different to Brazilian football, but with a lot of concentration, it’s difficult for others to get past me, just as it’s easier for me to dribble against them,” he explained. 

“The coach asks me to attack, to not make mistakes and to make the right decisions. I’m improving and playing helps that.” 

And looking ahead to Thursday’s clash against Bologna, he added: “For me, it’s a dream to play in Europe. We care a lot. Careers are built in these tournaments, it requires 100% concentration. We have to be ready tomorrow.” 

And on his individual battle with Federico Bernardeschi during the first leg, Wesley said: “He’s very strong with some great characteristics. The duel was great. We’ve played against a lot of strong players, but he’s very good.” 

According to Tuttosport, Milan director Igli Tare has met with one of Mateo Retegui’s agents as the Rossoneri aim to sign a new centre-forward, but the Italy star would need to lower his salary for a summer transfer.

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Milan sporting director Tare has reportedly met a member of Retegui’s entourage, Alessandro Moggi.

Milan: Tare meets Retegui’s agent

According to Tuttosport, Retegui is once again on the Rossoneri’s radar as the Serie A giants look for a new centre-forward for 2026-27.

Milan are unlikely to make Niclas Fullkrug’s move permanent at the end of the season and Retegui was already on their agenda in the past, including last summer, when the Italy international joined Al-Qadisiya from Atalanta for nearly €70m.

Retegui has gone on to score 15 goals in 25 appearances this season and is Italy’s top goalscorer under new coach Gennaro Gattuso.

Retegui is aware that he’d need to lower his €16m-per-season salary if he were to join Milan in the summer.

According to the report, the Rossoneri could offer €5m per year until 2031, while Al-Qadisiya’s asking price is around €45m- € 50m.

Tuttosport confirms that Retegui is not Milan’s only target in attack for next season, as Fiorentina star Moise Kean is also on the Rossoneri’s shopping list.

Cremonese have officially sacked their coach, Davide Nicola, and are expected to confirm Marco Giampaolo’s appointment.

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Serie A strugglers Cremonese have officially sacked their head coach Nicola.

Cremonese sack Nicola: official statement

“Cremonese announce that Mr. Davide Nicola has been relieved of his duties as head coach of the first team,” the club said in a statement on Wednesday.

“The club wishes to thank the coach and his staff for the professionalism, commitment and dedication they have shown in their daily work since they arrived in Cremona.”

Cremonese had had a fantastic start to the season, even winning on their 2025-26 Serie A debut away at Milan.

However, they now find themselves in the relegation zone, three points below safety.

On Monday, they suffered a heavy 4-1 home loss to Fiorentina, which eventually led to Nicola’s sacking.

The Grigiorossi have not won any of their last 15 Serie A matches, losing seven of their last eight league meetings.

Their most recent win dates back to December 7, 2025.

According to several reports, including Corriere della Sera, Cremonese will appoint ex-Milan coach Giampaolo, who will sign an 18-month contract.

According to Tuttosport, Joshua Zirkzee’s agent has informed Juventus that his client is available for a summer transfer, while Gazzetta reports that the Bianconeri are still keen on Randal Kolo Muani, especially with PSG interested in Jonathan David.

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Juventus are expected to sign a new centre-forward in the summer, regardless of Dusan Vlahovic’s potential contract extension.

Latest Juventus transfer news on Zirkzee and Kolo Muani

Jonathan David and Lois Openda have failed to impress in their first season at the Allianz Stadium, so the Serie A giants will listen to offers for the pair this summer.

According to Gazzetta, PSG director Luis Campos, who had brought David to Lille, is considering a reunion with the Canadian star in Paris.

David scored 87 goals in 178 Ligue 1 matches before joining Juventus as a free agent last summer, and the Bianconeri would consider a swap deal involving the Canadian forward and Kolo Muani, who won’t remain at Tottenham beyond the summer.

Juventus already tried to re-sign Kolo Muani in the January window, but Tottenham refused to part ways with the French striker, who is still destined to return to Paris at the end of his loan spell in June.

Both Kolo Muani and David earn circa €6m/7m per season, so a potential swap deal would suit Juventus financially, also because PSG value Kolo Muani at €40m.

According to Tuttosport, on the other hand, a possible Bianconeri target for the summer is ex-Bologna star Zirkzee.

The Dutch forward has reportedly decided to leave Manchester United at the end of the season, and his agent, Kia Joorabchian, has informed the Bianconeri directors that his client is available for a summer transfer.

Atalanta will look to Nikola Krstovic in the second leg of the Champions League Round of 16 against Bayern Munich, but the task ahead for La Dea appears overwhelming.

It kicks off at 21:00 CET (20:00 GMT) at the Allianz Arena in Munich.

La Dea suffered a 6-1 loss in the reverse fixture played in Bergamo last week, so there’s little doubt over who will reach the quarter-finals.

Atalanta have travelled to Germany without the suspended Yunus Musah, but the rest of the team is available, including Charles De Ketelaere and Italy international Giacomo Raspadori.

As reported by Sky Sport and Gazzetta, De Ketelaere is even expected to start as an attacking midfielder, joining Kamaldeen Sulemana and centre-forward Krstovic.

A few selection doubts remain in midfield, with Mario Pasalic and Marten de Roon battling for a central spot, while either Davide Zappacosta or Mitchel Bakker is set to feature on the left.

Bayern vs. Atalanta – where to watch on TV

The match will be broadcast on TNT Sports 4 in the UK and Ireland and Paramount+ in the USA. Football Italia will provide live updates via a live blog.

Bayern vs. Atalanta – probable line-ups

Bayern Munich (4-2-3-1): Urbig; Stanisic, Tah, Kim, Bischof; Pavlovic, Goretzka; Karl, Gnabry, Diaz; Jackson.

Atalanta (3-4-2-1): Carnesecchi; Scalvini, Hien, Ahanor; Bellanova, Ederson, Pasalic, Bakker; De Ketelaere, Sulemana; Krstovic. 

La Gazzetta dello Sport

Calha returns for the Scudetto

The Inter fixer

In the last month without Hakan three draws and one defeat, but Chivu reunites with his regista in Florence.

Pulisic and Leao: it’s peace. Rafa apologised: Let’s start again.

Juve, David to leave to re-sign Kolo Muani

Atalanta, Dea pride

Chelsea and City out, Bodo crushed.

Corriere dello Sport

Exclusive interview

Kenan Yildiz

‘My strength is the normality.’

The parents, the brother, Can Uzun, Bayern, Turkey and Juve: the simplicity of a phenomenon.

‘Del Piero is a legend, I’ve just started.’

Spalletti

‘The prince of football is the boy next door’

‘I’ve always played to improve; the money is a consequence. When I was eight, I played against those aged 18.’

‘The renewal? I’ve immediately felt trust here in Turin. In Germany, they didn’t believe in me.’

‘Spalletti? A man of emotions. Allegri? I owe him this life. The role? Better on the left.’

Tuttosport

Juve: Zirkzee with Vlahovic

DV9 renewal, it’s almost done and the Dutchman emerges again.

The former Bologna striker has a new issue with Manchester United and is pushing to leave; the Bianconeri could reshape their attacking strategy. Thuram warning for Sassuolo: Koopmeiners ready. The stats on the ability to quickly resume the play justify Perin replacing Di Gregorio.

‘Now a feat at San Siro.’

Toro behind the scenes: what D’Aversa told the team.

Retegui and Milan: contact!

Meeting around the table: the issue is the salary. Fofana: ‘The change of role will cost me the World Cup.’ Leao under pressure replies with the…Gospel. NBA Europe: Cardinale pushes. Arena in San Donato?

Dea for the honour, two English sides out.

City don’t make the comeback against Real, Chelsea crushed by PSG (Kvara scores again). Arsenal OK, epic Sporting CP.

AFCON give to Morocco!

Inter Milan and AC Milan sit jointly at the top of Serie A’s shirt sponsorship earnings table, but the gap between the division’s biggest clubs and the rest remains stark, and for one club, the commercial silence is deafening.

Both Milan clubs currently earn €30 million per season from their respective shirt partners, according to reports gathered by CalcioMercato.

Inter receive their fee from Bettson, whose logo appears as Bettson.sport on the jersey, a workaround required under Italian laws prohibiting direct betting sponsorship.

Milan’s deal with Emirates is worth the same figure this season, though a recently signed renewal will see that rise to €35 million from 2026/27 onwards.

Serie A shirt sponsors: Juventus, Napoli & Roma rise as Lazio go sponsorless

Juventus, meanwhile, have seen a dramatic fall in commercial income in this area.

Having gone a full season without a shirt sponsor, Save the Children carried no financial value, the club have returned Jeep to their jersey, but through an internal Exor arrangement worth just €19 million this season, rising to €23 million next year.

It is a far cry from the €45 million the previous Jeep deal delivered at its peak. Napoli’s MSC Crociere deal is worth €9 million this season and is also set to increase in the coming campaign.

Roma have just unveiled a new shirt partner of their own, Eurobet.live, another betting-adjacent workaround, worth €8 million this season and €13 million from next.

Across the city, however, Lazio remain the only club in Serie A without a shirt sponsor, with Claudio Lotito yet to secure any commercial partnership for the jersey.

Some of the most eye-catching figures come from family-owned clubs with internal sponsorship arrangements. Fiorentina receive €25 million from Mediacom, a company connected to the late Rocco Commisso’s family, while Sassuolo’s Mapei deal is worth €18 million.

At the other end of the scale, the numbers are considerably more modest. Bologna receive €3 million from owner Joey Saputo’s business, Atalanta earn €5 million from Lete, and Cagliari pick up €3.6 million from the Sardinian regional government.

Torino (Suzuki, €2.35m), Parma (Prometeon, €1.5m), Udinese (Friuli Venezia Giulia region, €1.5m) and Genoa (Pulsee, €1.2m) follow, with Verona, Lecce and Como all on €1 million.

Pisa bring up the rear with €700,000 from Cetilar, who also sponsor the stadium.

Raffaele Palladino has called on Atalanta to produce a performance worthy of their remarkable journey as they prepare to face Bayern Munich in the Champions League last-16 second leg at the Allianz Arena, knowing that overturning a 6-1 first-leg deficit represents one of the most daunting tasks in European football.

The occasion carries additional historical significance. Tomorrow’s match will be Atalanta’s 100th game in UEFA competition, and also the fixture in which Marten De Roon could equal a club appearance record.

Palladino confirmed the Dutchman will be involved, with quotes via TuttoMercatoWeb, adding with a smile that the milestone is “a great satisfaction, a historic result for him and for Atalanta.”

Atalanta boss Palladino gives updates on Raspadori & De Ketelaere

The head coach was also able to deliver positive team news, confirming that Giacomo Raspadori trained with the squad on Tuesday and will be available, while Charles De Ketelaere and Ederson have also returned to fitness after injury absences.

“We have missed these players enormously and we are delighted to have them back,” Palladino said. “We will try to build up their minutes carefully.”

On the match itself, Palladino’s message was simple and unambiguous.

“Tomorrow the team must play with pride,” he said.

“We have nothing to lose and everything to prove. We must be focused on ourselves, as we showed in the first leg, the details make the difference.”

He also pointed to the growth his side have shown since that heavy defeat, arguing that Atalanta’s response against Inter demonstrated a resilience that bodes well.

“Despite conceding six goals we managed to mature and react like a great team.”

Palladino was equally clear that the result is secondary to the performance.

“Recovering five goals is always a mountain to climb,” he acknowledged.

“But I want a match worthy of this club and this occasion. We are proud to be the last Italian side standing in the Champions League, and tomorrow we will fight until the very end.”

Italy national team striker Mateo Retegui is back in Florence and is reportedly working individually one week early ahead of Italy’s World Cup play-off campaign coming up at the end of the month. 

Retegui’s Italy training camp has already begun

Retegui currently plays for Al-Qadsiah, who sit in fourth place in the Saudi Pro League standings. The Argentine-born Italy international has provided 15 goals from 25 league outings so far this season. 

Due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, there will be no Saudi Pro League matches this coming weekend, which means that compared to the rest of his Italy teammates, Retegui has an extra week off ahead of the World Cup play-offs, which kick off on March 26. 

• Read more: O’Neill: Italy have ‘everything to lose’ against Northern Ireland in World Cup play-offs
• Read more: Football Italia writers pick squads for World Cup play-offs: Goalkeepers and defenders

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Retegui has already arrived in Florence, where Italy’s Coverciano training base is located, has rented an apartment nearby and is expecting to train individually every day until the rest of the squad reports for duty after their league fixtures this coming weekend. 

According to the Pink Paper, Retegui was concerned about the long pause that he would have had between matches, and decided to return to Italy a week early after phone calls with the FIGC and CT Gennaro Gattuso. 

Tuesday’s report states that Retegui’s training camp ‘has already begun’. 

Retegui is one of several strikers expected to be called up to the Azzurri squad for this month’s World Cup deciders against Northern Ireland and either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina. Fiorentina’s Moise Kean, Inter’s Pio Esposito and Atalanta’s Giacomo Raspadori are also expected to be included among Gattuso’s selections. 

Retegui is Italy’s leading goalscorer since Gattuso was called in to replace Luciano Spalletti as CT last summer. The national team has scored 19 goals from six matches since then: Retegui with five, Kean with four, Esposito with three and Raspadori and Gianluca Mancini with two apiece. Matteo Politano, Sandro Tonali and Alessandro Bastoni have one each.

Northern Ireland head coach Michael O’Neill insists that Italy are ‘the team with everything to lose’ ahead of the meeting of the two nations in the World Cup play-off semi-final next Thursday, and believes that playing the match in Bergamo benefits the Green and White Army.

Italy will host Northern Ireland at Atalanta’s New Balance Arena in Bergamo for the World Cup play-off semi-final coming up on March 26. The winner of that match will progress to face either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina away from home in a one-legged play-off final on March 31 for a spot at the final tournament. 

Italy have not yet announced their squad for the March international break, but are expected to by the end of this week. Northern Ireland confirmed their selections on Monday night, and O’Neill has given his verdict in front of the media at his press conference in Belfast. 

O’Neill on Italy pressure, Tonali quality and a venue that ‘suits’ Northern Ireland

The Northern Ireland head coach admits that there is a clear difference in quality between the two sides. 

Italy are expected to name a full squad of top-flight players, most of whom will have played in the Champions League at some stage this season, while Northern Ireland are only able to offer four Premier League players, 13 from the EFL Championship and eight from England’s third tier. They also have representatives from the Scottish Premiership, Scottish Championship and the 2. Bundesliga. 

“I mean, they’ve got a bunch of players who play in Serie A, play for Inter Milan, Lazio, Roma, Napoli,” said O’Neill during his press conference on Monday night (via The Irish News). 

“They also have players that play in the Premier League at top clubs as well. You know, Tonali is arguably as good a midfield player as there is in the Premier League. Calafiori at Arsenal as well. So, it’s going to be a very, very tough game. There’s no doubt about that.

“We’re going to have to step up. If you look at our squad there, there’s 13 players in the Championship. There’s four at Premier League clubs and the rest are League One or playing their football elsewhere.

“So, it is a big step up for us. But it’s a step up we’ve made in the past. I think we made it in the Germany game, albeit we didn’t get the results that we felt we maybe could have done. We have to try and make that step up again.”

Given the difference in personnel available, O’Neill believes that Italy are the ones with more pressure heading into the World Cup play-offs. 

“If you look at this game, we’re the team with everything to gain. They’re the team with everything to lose,” he said. 

“They have a lot of expectation as a football nation. Their players will have to deal with that. But that’s for them, we can’t really use it.

“We’ve just got to make the game as difficult for the opposition as possible and then those types of things will, I think, become factors in the game in terms of their mentality to the game and how we try and obviously make it more prevalent for them to think about things like that.”

Italy have won five of their first six matches since Gennaro Gattuso replaced Luciano Spalletti as CT, but fell to defeat against Norway on home soil in their most recent test, which sent them to the play-offs instead of the final World Cup tournament. 

“If you look at this group, they’ve had a change of manager after two games. Gennaro Gattuso’s been in for six games. They lost their last game 4-1 at San Siro against Norway. A game where they played well in the first half to be honest, and led 1-0, but they would have been disappointed with how the game finished in the second half as well,” said O’Neill. 

“I personally went to a game in Bergamo on the 27th of December. I saw Inter and Atalanta play, so I know what the atmosphere is like.That was a good atmosphere at the game because, obviously it’s not a derby but they’re very close by, Bergamo and Milan, so there was a big Inter Milan away support there as well.”

O’Neill believes that Italy selected Bergamo as the host city for this play-off semi-final due to their ghosts at other venues, but insists that the New Balance Arena will make the Northern Ireland squad feel more comfortable compared to San Siro or the Stadio Olimpico. 

“I think that possibly their history has made them make that decision. They’ve lost play-offs I think in the San Siro and as I touched on, their last game in San Siro against Norway. The outcome wouldn’t have been what they’d hoped for. So maybe they feel the smaller stadium brings less pressure. I don’t know.”

“For us the venue is fine. Most of our players play their club football weekly in venues of that size. They’re not running out in front of 80,000, 90,000 people every week. So I think the venue suits us.”

• Read more: Confirmed Northern Ireland squad to face Italy in World Cup play-offs
• Read more: What Italy should expect from Northern Ireland in World Cup play-offs

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Juventus have resumed their interest in Mason Greenwood, while Arsenal and Manchester United’s competition for Sandro Tonali has prompted the Bianconeri to continue talks with free agents Leon Goretzka and Bernardo Silva.

Juventus are preparing for next summer’s transfer campaign, although their priorities are Champions League qualification and Luciano Spalletti’s contract extension.

Gazzetta confirms that an agreement with Spalletti is near, with the Italian tactician expected to sign a new deal by Easter.

Juventus and Spalletti have already discussed possible reinforcements for 2026-27 and according to Gazzetta, the Serie A giants have once again targeted Marseille star Greenwood for the summer.

According to the report, Marseille might be forced to sell the Englishman for financial reasons if they miss out on Champions League qualification, but the price would be at least €50m.

Juventus have been monitoring Greenwood this season, but they also need Champions League qualification to afford his purchase.

Greenwood was already open to joining Juventus two years ago, but Marseille beat the Bianconeri to signing the ex-Manchester United man.

Leon Goretzka and Bernardo Silva, both available as free agents over the summer, are among Juventus’ top targets in central midfield.

The Bianconeri have been in talks with the pair in recent weeks, especially because their top target in the middle of the park, Tonali, has a high price tag and has been targeted by top Premier League clubs, especially Arsenal and Manchester United.

Milan star Rafael Leao posted a cryptic Instagram story almost two days after his angry reaction at being substituted against Lazio: ‘Do what is within your power; the impossible is my job.’

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Leao made headlines for the wrong reasons on Sunday night as he bitterly complained to coach Massimiliano Allegri after being subbed off in the second half of an away game at Lazio, which the Devil eventually lost 1-0.

Leao snubbed Allegri’s hug by pushing his coach away and then kicked and threw plastic bottles on the sidelines.

The Portuguese star remained silent for more than a day, but then posted an Instagram story on Tuesday, featuring a quote from the Gospel of Luke (chapter 1, verse 37), as SempreMilan highlights.

The message, written in Portuguese, can be translated as: “Do what is within your power; the impossible is my job.”

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Leao argued with Christian Pulisic in the dressing room following Sunday’s loss to Lazio, and Milan are so disappointed with the Portuguese’s attitude that they’ve put him on the market and will listen to offers for him during the summer.

Youssouf Fofana admits that having to adapt to a new role at Milan has been a big challenge, insists that he is still dreaming of a World Cup call-up despite being omitted from the France squad since 2024, and says that he is ‘divided’ as to whether or not he has had a ‘good’ season in 2025-26. 

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Fofana ‘unsure’ on Milan role, 2025-26 season ‘not good enough’

The Rossoneri midfielder sat down for an in-depth interview with l’Equipe, during which he discussed his preferred position, his tactical development since moving to Italy and the difficulties of standing out amongst a talented pool of French midfielders. 

Fofana says that he had been used to playing just in front of the defence before he joined Milan back in the summer of 2024, but now, he features in more of a box-to-box role on the right of a midfield three. 

“At first I had to learn on a tactical level,” Fofana told l’Equipe. “As we all know, Italy puts a big emphasis on that, it’s not a cliché at all. I thought I was coming with a good tactical background, but they really pay attention to everything. 

“It took me a while to understand that you can play a very good 90 minutes here and in the end, it ends up 1-0 in favour of the opponent. That’s because you’ve been beaten tactically. It took me a while to get that efficiency and tactical discipline.” 

Fofana says that there has been ‘two phases’ of his development since moving to Serie A: “I’m living (the second one) now. It’s a change of position,” Fofana said. “It’s as if for five years I’d looked at football in a certain way and now my perception is changing. 

“I don’t see the pitch from the same angle. I don’t really have the same benchmarks. For example, when I played in front of the defence, I always knew there were two players behind me, another diagonally on the right and another on the left. I could make passes into those areas without looking. 

“Now it’s completely different. I play on the right. When we don’t have the ball, I’m really high up, almost like a striker. When we have it, I’m between the lines. I used to go and get after these players.” 

Fofana was asked what it is like to have to learn a new position at the age of 27. 

He said: “When you’re told you’re going to play higher up, you’re happy at first. In the end, I learned that that’s not necessarily what I want. I do it for the team. I like to be at the start of the action, to control everything: the speed of my team’s play, the tempo, the ball recovery.” 

And what has Fofana learned from this tactical repositioning? 

“That I needed to play much faster. When I played in front of the defence, the player marking me was often a striker, who didn’t necessarily defend very well. Whereas here, the player who marks me is usually a defender, usually a tougher opponent. I have to be stronger, to take in more information than before.” 

Fofana says that he is unsure whether he would describe the 2025-26 season as a ‘good’ one on a personal level. 

“It’s a very good question,” he said. “I agree to learn, but am I doing well for the season? Not good enough, I think. In the position where I play, there’s more focus on statistics, and I think I could have been more efficient. 

“I could have had six goals this season and more assists, and then I might have told you that my season’s been good. Aside from that, I’m looking at the medium term. There’s the World Cup and I’m not sure that I’m expected to play in this position.” 

Fofana was asked whether that is frustrating for him with the 2026 World Cup quickly approaching. 

“At club level, I do it.. Especially when you’re in the mix to win a trophy. But will it help me in the future? I’m divided about that.” 

Fofana has not been called up to the France national team squad since October 2024. 

“At first it wasn’t a great experience. I wondered why I wasn’t getting called up. Then I started watching the matches and said to myself ‘okay Youssouf, there are other midfielders that are just as strong as you. Whether you’re there or not, the France team gets the same results, so you have to work and wait’.” 

Italy and Arsenal defender Riccardo Calafiori opens up about his scorpion block during last week’s Premier League match against Everton: ‘I didn’t think about it too much, I just reacted.’

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Calafiori has made headlines in England thanks to a fantastic clearance during a Premier League match against Everton on Saturday.

It allowed the Gunners to keep a clean sheet and ultimately secure a massive 2-0 win thanks to two late goals.

Calafiori: scorpion block my ‘best’ clearance so far

During a press conference on Tuesday, Calafiori spoke about his defensive action, admitting that it was probably the best clearance in his career so far.

“I think it is the best so far. Also, I think it was so important for the result and the team. I’m really happy about this,” the Italian told reporters before a Champions League match against Bayer Leverkusen.

“I didn’t think about it too much. I just looked at the guy shooting and thought I had to take as much space as possible. I just reacted. As we say, we love to defend our house and our goal, and we try to do everything we can.

“It’s important to get a clean sheet. When we do, we usually win the game, so it’s really important to us.”

Arsenal are the Arsenal table leaders with a nine-point lead over Manchester City, but Pep Guardiola’s side have a game in hand.

“I think especially now, from March on to the next few months, it’s the best part of the season as well,” added Calafiori.

“You started so early in the pre-season, and then you work so hard to get to this point, to be in the competition and to be so close to winning. I think it’s a dream to be here.”

The Italian is in his second season in North London and is certainly enjoying the atmosphere at the club, on and off the pitch.

“I think we’re all friends. I love them, and I have a good relationship with them,” he said.

“We are friends, first of all. Obviously, then on the pitch you try to compete to get ahead of them, but we’re all friends, and they’re all really good players, I think.

“Obviously, we love to chat in the dressing room. We love to help each other, and when it’s time to go aggressive on the pitch or sometimes just be more chill, just to help your teammate or the team at the end. Obviously, sometimes we see each other off the pitch, and I think that’s important.”

The Italian defender also spoke about his defensive movements at Arsenal: “We have a structure, and we have to respect all the principles and things we’ve been trying to learn since the beginning of the season. At the same time, I’m really good at doing what I do, finding this kind of place. But it’s not freedom. If I’m in that position, it means another player covers mine. You need a good structure to defend, it’s not casual, it’s structure.”

Calafiori will be one of the players included in the Italy squad for this month’s World Cup play-off semifinal against Northern Ireland.