The Italian national team is reportedly poised to make a surprising decision this month as they navigate the crucial final stages of the 2026 World Cup European Qualifiers.
Gli Azzurri are set to conclude their Group I campaign with two pivotal matches: an away fixture against Moldova on November 13, 2025, followed by a challenging encounter with Norway on November 16, 2025.
Currently, Gennaro Gattuso’s squad sits in second place in their group standings, having accumulated 15 points from six matches. This places Gianluigi Donnarumma and his teammates just three points behind group leaders Norway.
While Italy has already secured a spot in the play-offs, their direct qualification hopes hang by a thread. They technically still have a chance to draw level on points with Norway if they can achieve victories in both their upcoming matches, first against Moldova and then against Erling Haaland’s formidable side.
However, it appears that Italy has resigned itself to a runner-up finish in the group, which would mean progressing through the demanding play-off rounds. Despite the possibility of winning both remaining games, Gli Azzurri reportedly lack the confidence to overcome the significant goal difference currently held by their Scandinavian rivals.
Class Act: Italy National Team Coach Pledges to Resign and Isolate Himself if They Fail to Qualify for the 2026 World Cup
Italy’s current goal difference stands at a modest +10, a stark contrast to Norway’s commanding +26. Recognizing the slim odds of direct qualification and having accepted their likely fate of a play-off berth, the Italian National Team is reportedly unwilling to take unnecessary risks that could jeopardize their prospects in the subsequent rounds.
This cautious approach particularly applies to one of their brightest stars, midfielder Sandro Tonali. While conventional wisdom would suggest fielding Tonali in the vital clash against Norway, Italy is reportedly planning to bench the Newcastle United player for that match entirely.
The reasoning behind this strategic move is clear: Tonali already carries a yellow card from their match against Israel on October 14. Another booking would trigger a suspension for his next competitive fixture. Therefore, Italy’s plan is to utilize Tonali against Moldova, then strategically rest him for the Norway game.
Italy National Team Releases Squad: Luka Modric’s Former AC Milan Protégé Recalled
Should Tonali receive a yellow card in the Moldova fixture, he would only miss the Norway match and still be eligible to play in the crucial play-off semifinals scheduled for March 26. Conversely, it would be a disastrous blow for Italy if Tonali were to pick up his second yellow card against Norway. Such a scenario would render him unavailable for the play-off semifinals, a stage where Italy cannot afford to be without a player of Sandro Tonali’s caliber, regardless of the opponent.
To compensate for Tonali’s potential absence against Norway, Gattuso has several capable options at his disposal. Manuel Locatelli, Bryan Cristante, and Samuele Ricci are among the players who have also received call-ups to the squad and could step into the midfield role.
Furthermore, Andrea Cambiaso and Davide Frattesi find themselves in a similar disciplinary predicament to Tonali, each just one yellow card away from suspension. It is highly probable that Gattuso will apply the same careful management policy to these two players, prioritizing their availability for the critical play-off stages.
