Italy’s Road to World Cup 2026: Full Fixture List, Squad Updates & Key Matches.
Italy’s national football team embarks on a pivotal journey this June as they commence their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign. Under the guidance of manager Luciano Spalletti, the Azzurri are facing Norway and Moldova in Group I encounters. The two games could define their path to qualifying for the World Cup next year.
The first challenge awaited them in Oslo on June 6, where Italy confronted a resurgent Norwegian side and lost 3-0 against them. Subsequently, they are now set to host Moldova. These matches are crucial for Italy, especially after missing out on the last two World Cups.
Italy’s journey to the World Cup 2026 was delayed with their participation in the UEFA Nations League. They reached the quarter-finals and were then knocked out by Germany. As a result, their match against Norway was their first World Cup qualifier game. Norway are currently leading the group with six points from two games.
Only the group winner will earn a direct qualification while the runner-up will enter playoffs. Italy’s start has been shaky but they must secure a strong result in the upcoming fixture against Moldova to avoid falling behind early in the campaign. Even though it will be tough, Spalletti expressed confidence in his team’s preparedness.
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Here are Italy’s fixture for June and more –
| Matches | Date | Time (ET) | Venue |
| Norway vs Italy | June 6, Friday | 4:45 PM | Ullevaal Stadion, Oslo |
| Italy vs Moldova | June 9, Monday | 4:45 PM | Mapei Stadium, Reggio Emilia |
| Italy vs Estonia | September 5, Friday | 4:45 PM | TBD |
| Israel vs Italy | September 8, Monday | 4:45 PM | TBD |
The Azzurri face significant challenges with key players sidelined due to injuries. Striker Moise Kean has withdrawn from the squad after sustaining a thigh injury during training. This is a major setback for the team considering his impressive season with Fiorentina. Midfielder Manuel Locatelli and defender Matteo Gabbia are also unavailable, further testing the squad’s depth.
In response, Spalletti has called up emerging talents to fill the gaps. Mateo Retegui, Serie A’s top scorer last season, led the attack against Norway. Meanwhile, young defender Diego Coppola made his debut. Veteran goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma will captain the side, aiming to provide stability and experience.
Goalkeepers: Gianluigi Donnarumma, Alex Meret, Guglielmo Vicario
Defenders: Francesco Acerbi, Alessandro Bastoni, Alessandro Buongiorno, Andrea Cambiaso, Diego Coppola, Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Federico Dimarco, Matteo Gabbia, Federico Gatti, Destiny Udogie, Davide Zappacosta
Midfielders: Nicolo Barella, Cesare Casadei, Davide Frattesi, Manuel Locatelli, Samuele Ricci, Nicolo Rovella, Sandro Tonali
Forwards: Moise Kean, Lorenzo Lucca, Daniel Maldini, Riccardo Orsolini, Giacomo Raspadori, Mateo Retegui
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