"Gennaro Gattuso wants to see "maximum commitment" from his Italy players ahead of their two huge World Cup qualifiers this month. Italy are preparing for their upcoming clash with Moldova at Stadionul Zimbru, knowing a win will see them seal a play-off spot for FIFA's flagship tournament next year. They then welcome Group I leaders Norway to Stadio Giuseppe Meazza, with the possibility of overhauling at the summit, albeit a very slim one."
"Gattuso's men have a significantly lower goal difference compared to Norway (+10 to +26), who are the top scorers in the UEFA section of qualifying with 29 goals in six games. The Azzurri have failed to qualify for the last two editions of the World Cup in Russia and Qatar, and Gattuso has urged his players to leave it all on the field against Moldova."
"Against Moldova, we'll try out players who haven't had much playing time, but we have to think about ourselves and not about what Norway will do. The match against Moldova is the most important because the one against Norway is easier to prepare for. We know that this Norwegian team can cause us problems, with their speed, their physical presence, their exceptional style of football."
Gennaro Gattuso demands maximum commitment from the Italy squad ahead of two crucial World Cup qualifiers. A win in Moldova would secure a play-off place, while the subsequent home match against Norway offers a slim chance to climb the group. Norway lead Group I with a superior goal difference and 29 goals in six games. Italy missed the last two World Cups and need improved attacking output. Gattuso plans to test players with limited minutes against Moldova and focus on team performance. Moise Kean is sidelined by injury and Federico Chiesa declined the final international break. Italy have won all six previous meetings with Moldova, scoring 17 and conceding three.
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