Tag: World Cup playoffs

Italy’s World Cup Failure Deepens After Bonus Dispute Report

Gennaro Gattuso
April 2026

Italy’s collapse against Bosnia and Herzegovina has been followed by reports that players sought a qualification bonus shortly before the decisive match. The alleged request has intensified criticism of the squad’s mindset after another World Cup disaster. Football Italia, citing La Repubblica, reported that the squad asked for a €300,000 team bonus, around €10,000 per player, before the playoff final. The same report says Gattuso rejected the discussion and argued that rewards should only be discussed after qualification had been secured.

Italy Crash Out Again as Donnarumma Draws Backlash Over Shootout Antics

Gianluigi Donnarumma
April 2026

Italy failed to qualify for a third straight World Cup after losing to Bosnia and Herzegovina on penalties, and Gianluigi Donnarumma came under heavy criticism for bizarre shootout behaviour. He had played well in the match itself, but the drama of the penalties overshadowed that effort. Reuters confirmed Italy lost 4-1 on penalties after a 1-1 draw, sending Bosnia to the tournament. Separate match reporting described Donnarumma fiddling with the Bosnia goalkeeper’s penalty notes before Italy’s first miss, which intensified the reaction after another qualification failure.

Gyokeres Hat-Trick Sends Sweden Past Ukraine Into World Cup Playoff Final

Viktor Gyokeres
March 2026

Viktor Gyokeres scored a hat-trick as Sweden beat Ukraine 3-1 to stay alive in the World Cup playoffs. The result sends Sweden into a final showdown with Poland, keeping their hopes of reaching the 2026 World Cup intact. Reuters said Gyokeres struck early, added a second after the break and then completed his treble from the penalty spot after winning the foul himself. Ukraine scored late through Matvii Ponomarenko, but Sweden had already taken firm control of the tie in Valencia.

Potter Defends Sweden Squad Call After Mourinho Questions Dahl Omission

Graham Potter
March 2026

Graham Potter responded calmly after Jose Mourinho questioned why Samuel Dahl had been left out of Sweden’s squad. The Sweden coach said the omission was purely a sporting decision and stressed there was nothing negative behind leaving the Benfica full-back out.Mourinho had publicly said Potter would need to explain Dahl’s absence after the defender’s strong season at Benfica. Potter replied that disagreements over selection are part of football and said Sweden remain satisfied with the squad they have chosen for the playoff.

Kulusevski to Join Sweden Camp in Support Role During Rehab

Dejan Kulusevski
March 2026

Dejan Kulusevski will link up with Sweden’s camp despite still being sidelined, with Graham Potter wanting the Tottenham forward around the squad for morale and support. He is not expected to play, but his presence is viewed as useful during a high-pressure international window.
Reports said Kulusevski will visit the Sweden camp in Spain while continuing his recovery from a long-term knee injury. Potter said the stage of his rehab makes the visit manageable, even though he remains unavailable for competitive action.

Gattuso Sends Chiesa Home Before Italy’s World Cup Playoff With Northern Ireland

Gennaro Gattuso
March 2026

Gennaro Gattuso confirmed Federico Chiesa left Italy’s camp before the playoff against Northern Ireland after reporting minor physical issues and doubts over his readiness. The decision removes one of Italy’s most experienced wide options from a match carrying huge pressure and qualification stakes. Gattuso said Chiesa’s condition and mindset did not justify keeping him with the squad, adding that the choice was taken together. Italy are now focusing fully on the playoff, with the coach stressing calmness, positivity and the need to avoid another World Cup qualifying collapse

Chiesa Returns to Italy Squad for World Cup Playoff Push

Federico Chiesa
March 2026

Federico Chiesa has returned to the Italy squad for the World Cup playoffs, ending his absence from the national team since Euro 2024. The Liverpool forward is part of Gennaro Gattuso’s 28-man group for the knockout route that begins against Northern Ireland. Italy’s official squad announcement confirmed Chiesa’s recall alongside several other key names, with the first playoff set for Bergamo before a possible second match against either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina. His return gives Italy an experienced wide option for a high-pressure international window.

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