Italy May Rest Key Player in World Cup Qualifier
Italy’s national soccer team is carefully considering its lineup for the upcoming World Cup qualifying match against Norway. Coach Gennaro Gattuso has hinted that midfielder Sandro Tonali might not play in the crucial game.
The reason for this potential decision is that Tonali is currently at risk of suspension. If he receives a yellow card during the match against Norway, he would be forced to sit out Italy’s next international game. This next game is likely to be a World Cup qualifying playoff semifinal, scheduled for March 2026, a match the team wants Tonali available for.
Before facing Norway, Italy will play against Moldova on Thursday. The game against Norway, which will be held at San Siro, is the final match in the World Cup qualifying group stage.
Besides Tonali, two other Italian players, Andrea Cambiaso and Davide Frattesi, are also in danger of suspension. A yellow card for any of these players in the Norway game would lead to them missing the important playoff semifinal.
Coach Gattuso addressed the situation during a press conference, stating that he had spoken with Tonali and that the team could not afford to lose a player of his caliber for the crucial semifinal match. He indicated that it would be difficult for Tonali to play against Norway, given the risk.
Currently, in Group I, Italy trails Norway by three points. Norway also has a significantly better goal difference. This means Norway is in a strong position to secure direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup, unless they unexpectedly drop points against Estonia before their match with Italy.
On a more positive note for the Italian squad, midfielder Nicolò Barella will be suspended for the match against Moldova. This means he will be fresh and available to play against Norway.
The team’s strategy reflects the importance of the upcoming matches and the need to balance the risk of suspension with the desire to field the strongest possible team. The coaching staff is carefully weighing the options to ensure Italy has the best chance of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.
