World Cup 2018 axe looms, Italy face strong test away at Sweden
MILAN: For football giants Italy, the next few days could be a nightmare as they face a two-legged play-off against Sweden to avoid the humiliation of missing the World Cup for the first time in 60 years. The first leg will be at Solna, Sweden.
The last time Italy missed the World Cup was the 1958 edition which was hosted in Sweden.
“I don’t even consider the idea of not qualifying. We’ll go to Russia for sure,” insisted Italy coach Gian Piero Ventura. “We’re Italy and missing out on the World Cup is not an option,” added defender Leonardo Bonucci.
The play-off puts Italy’s proud record of World Cup participation in danger. The Azzurri are tied with Germany for most appearances by a European nation, 18. But Germany have already made sure of a 19th berth.
Italy last won the World Cup in 2006 under Marcello Lippi with the hope that with their experience, talent and skill they could continue to prevail in years to come.
But despite a run to the Euro 2012 final they have failed to deliver consistency on the big stage, although former Juventus boss Conte led them to the quarter-finals of Euro 2016 .
After Conte’s departure to Chelsea the federation turned to Ventura, who had coached clubs in Italy at all levels over 41 years.
The 69-year-old has often however appeared overwhelmed by the task, preferring to stick to his 4-2-4 tactical system to the detriment of the creativity of stars.
Confidence took a knock during a qualifying campaign during which they lost 3-0 to Spain, while labouring to a dismal 1-1 draw at home to Macedonia.
BUFFON RECORD
Veteran goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon is bidding to reach a record sixth World Cup finals in Russia and Italy’s defence need to beware of Sweden, the top scorers among the eight play-off teams, with 26 goals in 10 games.
“Sweden create a sense of fear because they always do the same thing but they do it well,” said Buffon. “We mustn’t feel the pressure because it won’t help us. The important thing is the result is the same as in 1997 (when Italy beat Russia in qualifying play-off).”