World Cup Playoffs 2026: Italy-Northern Ireland, likely lineups

At 8:45 p.m., at the New Balance Arena in Bergamo, Italy faces Northern Ireland in the semifinal of the playoffs for qualification to theWorld Cup 2026. It is a decisive match: whoever wins goes to the final against the winner between Wales and Bosnia and Herzegovina.

For the Azzurri it is a vital match. In fact, after twelve years without a World Cup, with missed qualifiers for the 2018 and 2022 editions, Gennaro Gattuso’s team wants to prove it is ready, especially mentally. The pressure is on, but the goal is clear: to return to a World Cup final stage.

Northern Ireland, coached by Michael O’Neill, arrives with less pressure but a great desire to do well. In fact, it has not participated in a World Cup since 1986 and dreams of the big one. The record rewards Italy: out of 11 matches it has had seven wins, only one defeat (in 1958) and three draws, including the 0-0 in 2021.

As for the lineup, Bastoni wants to play but Gattuso will decide at the last. In case of a forfeit, Gatti or Buongiorno are ready. Mancini is not in his best condition but should start as a starter. Instead, on the flank there is the doubt between Palestra and Politano (favored the Napoli outfielder). As for the attack, there are three players for two places, but Retegui and Kean are slightly favored over Esposito. Northern Ireland will also play with 3-5-2, relying on the offensive pair Donley-Prince.

The likely lineups

ITALY (3-5-2): Donnarumma; Mancini, Bastoni, Calafiori; Palestra, Barella, Locatelli, Tonali, Dimarco; Kean, Retegui. All. Gattuso

NORTHERN IRELAND (3-5-2): Hazard; McNair, Brown, McConnell; Hume, Galbraith, Lyons, McDonnell, Lewis; Donley, Price. All. O’Neill