Italy`s soccer federation president resigned amid political pressure on Thursday, two days after the Azzurri failed to qualify for a third consecutive World Cup. Gabriele Gravina`s decision will likely lead to the ouster of Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso, too.
Italy`s Sports Minister Andrea Abodi called for a change in the country`s soccer leadership after Gravina oversaw two sets of disappointing World Cup qualifiers.
Italy`s chances of reaching this year`s tournament in North America ended after a penalty shootout loss to Bosnia and Herzegovina in a qualifying playoff on Tuesday. Fans have been asking for big changes in the Italian federation after missing out on the World Cup again.
Italian coach Gattuso under pressure to resign
Former Italian midfielder and now coach, Gattuso, is under pressure to resign after Italy failed to qualify for the FIFA World Cup for the third consecutive time. Azzurri lost to Bosnia and Herzegovina on penalties.
Italy were in the World Cup playoffs after they failed to beat Norway in the group stage of qualifying. Italy knew a win against Bosnia would put them through to the marquee tournament in the US. However, a shock defeat has left the Italians shell-shocked as they missed a third consecutive World Cup.
The Italians looked set to qualify after Moise Kean opened the scoring to give the visitors a lead. However, everything unravelled soon for the Azzurris. Just before half-time, Alessandro Bastoni was sent off for a reckless tackle, and the Italians were down to 10 men.
In the second-half, Kean had a golden chance to double Italy`s lead when he raced through on goal from his own half but missed the target.
That miss came back to haunt Italy as their worst nightmares came true after substitute Haris Tabakovic equalised in the 79th minute. The tall striker put the ball in the back of the net after a goalmouth scramble in the visitors` box.
Eventually, Italy lost 4-1 on penalties and will go at least 16 years without playing at the FIFA World Cup. After the match, Gattuso said he will announce his future soon.
(With AP Input)
