"Italy's elimination from the World Cup playoffs, sealed in a penalty shootout against Bosnia and Herzegovina, marks a watershed moment in European football, as they become the first former World Cup winners to miss three consecutive tournaments."
"Bosnia and Herzegovina's qualification is monumental, as they overcame a brutal path, including a semifinal against Wales and a final against Italy, to secure their first-ever World Cup appearance."
The qualification playoffs for the 2026 FIFA World Cup showcased intense drama, with Bosnia and Herzegovina, Sweden, Türkiye, and Czechia securing the final European spots. Italy's elimination, following a penalty shootout loss to Bosnia, marks a historic low for the four-time champions, who now miss three consecutive tournaments. Bosnia's qualification is particularly notable, as they overcame significant odds, including a dramatic semifinal against Wales and a tense final against Italy, to achieve their first World Cup appearance since 2014.
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