Overview
- Italy finished second behind Norway and will enter single-leg European playoffs, with the draw in Zurich on Thursday and matches set for March 26 (semifinal) and March 31 (final).
- FIGC and the coaching staff favor Bergamo’s New Balance Arena for the home semifinal to maximize a compact, intense atmosphere, with Rome’s Olimpico considered if a home final is drawn.
- Gattuso has requested a 48-hour Coverciano stage in February, plans regional meetings and dinners, and is maintaining close contact with players to address defensive cohesion and psychological fragility.
- Corriere della Sera highlights Donnarumma, Calafiori, Tonali and Kean as central to Italy’s plan, while the coach keeps the door open to returns such as Federico Chiesa.
- Bookmakers have lengthened Italy’s qualification odds after the 1-4 loss to Norway, with around 2.00 for qualification and 1.80 for elimination, as figures like Walter Sabatini publicly urge support for the team.