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Italy v Belarus - FIFA Women´s World Cup 2027 European Qualifiers Play-offs Round 1: Second LegGetty Images Sport
Federico Zanon
Translated by

2027 World Cup: Italy draw with Belarus, face Finland in play-off final

Italy
Women's football
Italy vs Belarus
Belarus
World Cup Qualification UEFA

Italy's women are through the first play-off round after a 1-1 draw at the Franchi, having beaten Belarus 2-0 in Tbilisi last Friday. Finland now stand between them and the World Cup in Brazil as they chase a place at the finals for a third consecutive time.


After dominating the first half, the Azzurre took the lead through Bonansea after nine minutes. Belarus's Alkhovik equalised in the second half as defensive lapses cost Italy.

  • Target achieved

    After rotating his squad, Soncin reflected on the match: "We achieved our objective. That was what we wanted. Of course," Soncin continued, "we could have done better in some respects, but we are determined to be better prepared when we meet up again in November. There was a great atmosphere at the Franchi tonight, and we regret not winning. But the message that came across is extremely positive: we want to go to Brazil because it is a dream we all share, and it could be an achievement that brings young girls even closer to this sport."


  • Malagò’s request

    "Congratulations to the Azzurre on reaching the play-off final," says FIGC commissioner Giovanni Malagò. He adds: "Finland now await us in a decisive two-legged tie in which we will have to show all our qualities and the determination needed to achieve a crucial goal: qualification for the 2027 World Cup. We must support these girls and let them know we are behind them."


  • Now Finland: the dates

    Italy face Finland over two legs in early December, hosting the return leg on Saturday 5 December after travelling to Finland for the first leg on Tuesday 1 December.

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