Summary of this article

Italy finished second in Group I with 18 points, behind Norway (24)

The Azzurri have failed to qualify directly for three consecutive World Cups

Italy will be in Pot 1 for the playoff draw, scheduled for November 20 in Zurich

Italy's hopes of securing automatic qualification for the FIFA World Cup 2026 ended with a crushing 1-4 defeat to Norway in Milan on Sunday. Pio Esposito gave the hosts an early lead in the 11th minute, but Norway owned the San Siro fixture -- Erling Haaland struck twice within two minutes, on either side of goals from Antonio Nusa and Jorgen Strand Larsen.

Effectively pitted against Norway for the top spot, which guarantees a direct ticket to the Finals, Italy were always playing catch-up to Haaland & Co in Group I. After a 0-3 defeat on

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