World Cup qualifiers 2026: Italy-Estonia, the probable formations

Italy hosts Estonia on the fifth day of World Cup 2026 qualifiers in Group I. Kickoff will be at 8:45 p.m. at the Bergamo Stadium. The Azzurri, led by new coach Gennaro Gattuso, need the three points to narrow the gap with Norway, the leaders with 12 points (9 more than Italy) but also with two more games.

Gattuso seems intent on launching both Kean and Retegui in attack, with the violet center forward behind the former Atalanta man. On the flanks there is room for Politano and Zaccagni, while in midfield Barella and Tonali. Four-man defense with Calafiori and Bastoni in the middle in front of Donnarumma.

Henn opts for the same form (4-2-3-1) with Sappinen as the only forward, supported by Kristal, Yakoklev and Sinyaviskiy. Midfield dike composed of Palumets and Shein, while in defense Schjonning-Larsen and Saliste will act as full-backs.

Probable lineups

Italy (4-2-3-1): Donnarumma; Di Lorenzo, Calafiori, Bastoni, Dimarco; Barella, Tonali; Politano, Kean, Zaccagni; Retegui. Ct. Gattuso

Estonia (4-2-3-1): Hein; Schjonning-Larsen, Paskotsi, Kuusk, Saliste; Palumets, Shein; Kristal, Yakovlev, Sinyaviskiy; Sappinen. Ct. Henn