Italy has missed out on the World Cup for three consecutive editions.

On the early morning of April 1st Beijing time, in the European qualifying play-off final, Italy lost to Bosnia and Herzegovina in a penalty shootout, missing out on the World Cup finals for the third consecutive time. In the 15th minute, Barella assisted and Kean scored to give Italy the lead. In the 42nd minute, Bastoni was sent off and Italy played with ten men. In the 79th minute, Tabakovi scored in a scramble, equalizing for Bosnia and Herzegovina. The match ended in a 1-1 draw and went into extra time, with no further goals scored. Both teams entered a penalty shootout. In the penalty shootout, Pio and Cristante missed their penalties, while Bosnia and Herzegovina converted all four. In the end, Italy lost to Bosnia and Herzegovina 1-4 in the penalty shootout, failing to qualify for the World Cup finals for the third consecutive time.