PALERMO, Sicily. European champion Italy will miss the World Cup. Again.
The unthinkable happened in Palermo on Thursday as the Azzurri lost 1-0 to North Macedonia after Alexander Trajkovski scored the last goal in the play-off semi-finals.
Italy will miss its second World Cup in a row after a stunning loss to North Macedonia on Thursday.AP
The reaction of the Italian Joao Pedro after the defeat to North Macedonia on March 24, 2022. AFP via Getty Images
Jorginho cries after North Macedonia canceled Italy’s World Cup qualifier. AP
This was the only real opportunity for North Macedonia after a completely dominant game by Italy, which missed a few chances and somewhat saved the guests’ goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski.
Italy also failed to qualify for the 2018 World Cup after losing to Sweden in a two-legged play-off. Missing two World Cups in a row is an all-time low point for a four-time champion, especially just months after winning Euro 2020.
North Macedonia players celebrate their late goal by beating Italy. AFP via Getty Images
The Italian players were in despair after the loss to North Macedonia.Getty Images
On Tuesday, North Macedonia will play Portugal for a place in Qatar after Cristiano Ronaldo’s side beat Turkey 3-1. Euro 2020 is the only major tournament that North Macedonia has qualified for.