Italy revived their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying hopes with a crucial 2-0 victory over Moldova in Reggio Emilia on Monday, providing outgoing coach Luciano Spalletti a parting gift after a turbulent week for the Azzurri.

Spalletti’s departure amidst pressure

The win comes just days after Spalletti was informed he would be relieved of his duties following Italy’s disappointing 3-0 defeat to Norway in their opening qualifier. That loss intensified scrutiny on the national team, who have failed to reach the last two World Cups, missing out in 2018 and 2022 after playoff heartbreaks.

Despite the managerial uncertainty, Italy responded with a composed performance. Giacomo Raspadori opened the scoring, while Andrea Cambiaso doubled the lead, sealing the nation’s first points in Group I.

Group I standings and qualification race

Italy’s victory keeps their qualification hopes alive but leaves them in a precarious position. Norway, led by Erling Haaland’s 62nd-minute winner over Estonia, have a perfect record with four wins from four matches. Italy trails Norway by nine points, though the Azzurri have played two fewer games.

Only the group winner is guaranteed a spot at the expanded 48-team tournament in North America, while runners-up face the perilous playoff route—where Italy’s recent campaigns have ended in disappointment.

Looking ahead

Italy’s inability to increase their goal difference against Moldova could prove costly in a tight group, with every goal potentially vital. As the Azzurri transition to a new managerial era, the challenge remains steep: overhaul Norway’s lead or risk another playoff gauntlet.

Spalletti’s tenure ends on a bittersweet note, but his final match delivered a much-needed boost for Italy’s World Cup ambitions. The focus now shifts to building momentum under new leadership and reclaiming a place among football’s elite.