ITALY are absent from the 2022 World Cup and everyone is asking the same question – why?
Roberto Mancini’s men were ever so impressive during Euro 2020 and gained plaudits for their performances.
The Italians ended up winning the tournament, lifting the trophy at Wembley after beating England on penalties.
However, just a year since the final, Italy are not taking part in the 2022 World Cup.
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Why aren’t Italy at the World Cup?
The Azzurri are the most notable absentees from the World Cup along with the likes of Norway and Egypt.
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Mancini would have been hoping to build on the foundations he laid after winning Euro 2020 but Italy have now missed two World Cups in a row.
Italy had been on an impressive run of qualifying for every World Cup between 1962 and 2014, only failing to qualify for the tournament once in their history before missing out in 2018.
The Blues missed out again in 2022, falling to defeat against North Macedonia in a qualifying playoff match.
The winner went on to face Portugal, who came out on top and earned their place for the tournament in Qatar.
Facing England, Ukraine and North Macedonia in Euro 2024 qualifying, Italy will be hopeful of being present at the next European competition to defend their crown before attempting to make the 2026 World Cup.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
