(Football news) Reigning European champions Italy failed to qualify for their second consecutive World Cup after losing 1-0 at home to North Macedonia, thanks to a second half stoppage time goal by Aleksandar Trajkovski. Four years ago, when Italy didn’t qualify for the World Cup in Russia, it was the first time since 1958 that the Gli Azzurri didn’t make it to the prestigious tournament but hopes were high after their Euro 2020 victory that Roberto Mancini’s team would not only qualify but were one of the favourites to lift the coveted Jules Rimet Trophy in Qatar.

The match was held in Palermo and Italy got off to a dominant start but failed to find the back of the net. Despite 32 attempts on goal, Italy simply weren’t clinical enough and were punished in the 92nd minute when Trajkovski scored to set up a final qualifying match against Portugal for a place in the 2022 World Cup. Few would have predicted such a shocking result despite Italy missing the likes of Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini because of injuries as even the makeshift defence wasn’t troubled, especially in the first half.

Domenico Berardi had an excellent opportunity to score the opening goal after a misplaced pass by North Macedonia goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski but the Sassuolo forward's shot lacked intent and was easily saved by the goalkeeper. Ciro Immobile was also wasteful in front of goal, blasting his shot wide from a dangerous position while Berardi failed to hit the target once again. With nerves kicking in, Italy’s finishing became even more woeful and Mancini gave Joao Pedro his debut but it was North Macedonia who struck in the stoppage time against the run of play in a move which was their only meaningful opportunity throughout the match.

Speaking after the match, Italy midfielder Jorginho said “It is a huge disappointment. It hurts, it hurts so much. We have always created and dominated matches but we have not been able to finish teams off. It is not to blame anyone in particular but it is the reality. I don't know why we haven't been able to do this, I am also involved in this, and it hurts me to think about it." 

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