In a 1-1 draw against Bosnia and Herzegovina, Italy’s hopes for the 2026 World Cup were dashed when the Azzurri lost 5-4 on penalties after a red card for Alessandro Bastoni and a Haris Tankovic equaliser pushed the tie into extra‑time.
Italian newspapers such as Tuttosport, Gazzetta dello Sport and Corriere dello Sport demanded sweeping changes, calling for a reset and accountability, while manager Gennaro Gattuso said he would not discuss his future after the defeat.