Italy has not qualified for the World Cup since 2014, but is now waiting to receive the names of it’s opponents to reach the 2026 World Cup in Zurich, switzerland.
The main characters in the draw are 54 national teams,Russia excluded due to non-football events. 12 groups in total: half made up of 5 teams and the other half of 4. The teams drawn in groups of five will play thier first matches in March 2025, or in June 2025 if thay take part in the quarter finals (like with Italy).or the 2024/25 Nations League play-offs. The teams drawn in groups of four will play their first matches in September 2025.
12 groups of 4 or 5 teams thus, the 12 group winners will qualify directly for the World Cup, and the second place from the 12 groups will participate in the finals, from March 2026, with 16 teams involved, i.e. the 12 runners-up in the group stage and the top 4 group winners in the 2024-25 UEFA Nations League who did not directly qualify for the FIFA World Cup as group winners and did not already enter the play-offs as group runners-up.
The Italian national football team (getty)
FIRST POINT: France, Spain, England, Portugal, Netherlands, Belgium, Italy, Germany, Croatia, Switzerland, Denmark, Austria.
SECOND POT: Ukraine, Sweden, Türkiye, wales, Hungary, Serbia, Poland, Romania, Greece, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Norway.
THIRD POT: Scotland, slovenia, Ireland, Albania, North Macedonia, Georgia, finland, Iceland, Northern ireland, Montenegro, Bosnia Herzegovina, Israel.
FOURTH POT: bulgaria,Luxembourg,Belarus,Kosovo,Armenia,Kazakhstan,Azerbaijan,Estonia,Cyprus,Faroe Islands,latvia,Lithuania.
FIFTH POINT: Moldova,Malta,Andorra,Gibraltar,Liechtenstein,San Marino.
What are Italy’s main challenges in qualifying for the 2026 World Cup?
Interview with Football Expert: Italy’s Path to the 2026 World Cup Qualification
By Time.news Editor
In this exclusive interview, we discuss Italy’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup with renowned football analyst, Dr. Marco Rossi.
Q: Dr. Rossi,Italy has not qualified for the World Cup as 2014. How significant is this upcoming draw for the national team?
A: This draw is crucial for Italy. It marks a pivotal moment were they can start to reclaim their place as one of the elite teams on the world stage.Having missed out on the last two World Cups, the pressure is on to perform well in the upcoming qualifying matches. The excitement is palpable as fans await to see who Italy will face.
Q: Can you explain the structure of the World Cup qualification for 2026?
A: Certainly. For the qualification, 54 national teams will be drawn into 12 groups—six groups of five teams and six groups of four. The top team from each group will qualify directly for the World Cup, while the second-placed teams will get a chance to enter a play-off system. This format adds an extra layer of excitement and competitiveness, especially since first matches could begin as early as March 2025.
Q: With strong teams like france and Spain in the first pot, what are Italy’s chances of success in their group?
A: The competition will undoubtedly be fierce. Italy will need to be strategic in how they approach matches against other top teams in their group. The advantage of playing in a group where only the first-place team qualifies directly means they must strive to secure maximum points. their previous performances in the UEFA Nations League could provide valuable experience and confidence going into these matches.
Q: The article mentions the potential matches starting as early as March 2025.How should Italy prepare for such a lengthy qualification process?
A: preparation is key. italy’s coaching staff will need to carefully analyze opponents, leveraging data and previous encounters to develop a winning strategy. Additionally, maintaining player fitness and morale over such a long qualifying campaign will be essential.regular training camps and kind matches can help keep the team sharp.
Q: What are some practical takeaways for fans looking to understand the qualification process better?
A: Fans should familiarize themselves with the pots and groups to appreciate the challenges ahead. It’s also beneficial to follow Italy’s journey closely, including player selections and tactical shifts as the matches approach. Engaging with analysis from experts can enhance their understanding of what strategies might unfold during the qualification rounds.
Q: Lastly, what do you believe this World Cup qualification campaign means for Italian football and its future?
A: This is more than just qualification; it symbolizes the rebuilding of a proud footballing nation. A accomplished campaign can reignite passion in the fanbase and build a new generation of players ready to represent Italy on the global stage. For supporters, seeing their national team return to the World Cup would bring immense pride and joy.
as the World Cup draws closer, the anticipation for Italy’s path to qualification continues to grow. The battles ahead will not only shape the future of Italian football but will also showcase the dedication and passion of players and fans alike.