In one of the most dramatic results in World Cup qualifying history, Bosnia and Herzegovina eliminated Italy 4-1 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in Zenica on March 31, 2026. The four-time champions will now miss their third consecutive FIFA World Cup — an unprecedented low for one of football's most decorated nations.
Italy took the lead through Moise Kean's fine curled finish from the edge of the box in the 15th minute. But the Azzurri were reduced to ten men when Alessandro Bastoni received a red card before half-time. Bosnia fought back and levelled with 11 minutes remaining when Haris Tabaković turned in the rebound after Gianluigi Donnarumma clawed Edin Džeko's header off the line.
In the shootout, Sandro Tonali was the only Italian to convert from the spot. Bosnia scored all four of their penalties, with Esmir Bajraktarevic hitting the winning kick to send the Zenica crowd into raptures. Bosnia join Canada, Switzerland and Qatar in Group B at the 2026 FIFA World Cup — their second World Cup appearance and first since 2014.
Gennaro Gattuso was subsequently sacked as Italy head coach by mutual consent on April 3, bringing an end to a turbulent nine months in charge. The result marks a historic low for Italian football, making them the first former World Cup winner to miss three consecutive tournaments (2018, 2022, 2026).
