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O'Neill insists all the pressure is on Italy ahead of WC play-off

Northern Ireland manager Michael O’Neill has declared that the weight of expectation lies firmly on Italy’s shoulders as his young side prepare for a daunting 2026 World Cup play-off semi-final away to the four-time champions. The March showdown in Italy on 26 March will mark the first step on what could be a remarkable path back to football’s grandest stage for both nations. Should Northern Ireland conjure an upset, they will face either Wales or Bosnia-Herzegovina five days later in a decisive, winner-takes-all play-off final for a coveted ticket to North America.

'Chiesa has the problem, not me' - Gattuso addresses Italy return

Gennaro Gattuso delivered a sharp message about Federico Chiesa’s Italy future after the Liverpool winger rejected two more national team call-ups. With the Azzurri preparing for a tense 2026 World Cup play-off run, the spotlight is now firmly on Chiesa’s repeated withdrawals and Gattuso’s growing frustration. The situation adds fresh tension around Italy’s build-up to a defining March showdown.

Wales v North Macedonia - FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier

World Cup play-off draw: Italy block path for Wales & N Ireland

Italy block the qualification path for Wales and Northern Ireland when it comes to reaching the 2026 World Cup, while the Republic of Ireland will face Czechia in the play-off semi-finals. There are four more places at FIFA’s flagship event up for grabs in the UEFA section, with routes to the United States, Canada and Mexico being mapped out for all of the hopefuls.

Gattuso must 'teach alphabet to schoolkids' - Sacchi blasts Italy players

Legendary coach Arrigo Sacchi has slammed the Italy squad after their 4-1 loss to Norway in World Cup qualification, saying that manager Gennaro Gattuso may need to take them back to the basics to rebuild their confidence and overall structure. The Azzurri, having missed out on the last two World Cups, will have to navigate the play-offs to secure a place at the competition next year after finishing second in their qualifying group.

'We overdid the party' - Norway boss apologises to Italy after big win

Norway coach Stale Solbakken revealed that he apologised to the Italian team after Norway’s celebrations went overboard following their 4-1 win over Italy at the San Siro. A brace from Erling Haaland helped Norway secure their first World Cup finals qualification since 1998, marking a historic moment for the nation. With the defeat, Italy must now navigate the play offs phase in order to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.

Italy 'got everything wrong' as Gattuso apologises for Norway humiliation

Italian national team coach Gennaro Gattuso has apologised to fans after Italy’s heavy 4-1 defeat to Norway. The coach believes the match was split into two distinct halves, with Italy performing well in the first but collapsing in the second due to fear and fragility. Italy now wait for the draw to learn who they will face in the play off in March.

Erling Haaland Gianluigi Donnarumma Norway Italy 2025

Why Haaland had to be held back by Donnarumma during Italy row

Erling Haaland has revealed why he had to be restrained by Manchester City team-mate Gianluigi Donnarumma during Norway’s 2026 World Cup qualification clash with Italy. The prolific striker netted another brace in that contest, helping to fire his country to a major international tournament, with a fire being lit in the 25-year-old after seeing his “ass” grabbed.

Haaland's heading to World Cup 2026! Striker bags brace in Italy win

Erling Haaland's quickfire brace secured Norway a superb 4-1 comeback win over Italy to fire his country to their first World Cup since 1998. The Manchester City talisman exploded into the game with two goals in as many minutes as they topped their World Cup qualifying group in style. If the striker can continue his prolific form in front of goal, he could be a huge threat at his first World Cup.

Haaland's Norway team-mate emulates Rodman with outrageous look

Julian Ryerson turned heads as Norway prepared for a crucial World Cup qualifier against Italy, arriving with a bold leopard-print haircut inspired by NBA icon Dennis Rodman. The Borussia Dortmund defender, who plays alongside Erling Haaland for the national team, rocked blond hair covered with black cheetah-style spots, sparking a wave of reaction online.

Brazil v Senegal - International Friendly

Ancelotti offers Arsenal apology after Gabriel injury

Carlo Ancelotti has apologised to Arsenal after Gabriel Magalhaes limped out of Brazil’s friendly win over Senegal, with the Selecao head coach saying the defender now faces a painful wait to discover the severity of the injury. The Gunners centre-back could be set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines after sustaining an abductor complaint on Saturday evening.

Arsenal suffer another injury blow after losing Gabriel

Arsenal have suffered another injury blow in the Premier League title race after Italy confirmed Riccardo Calafiori has withdrawn from international duty due to injury. Azzurri head coach Gennaro Gattuso has announced the defender will miss Sunday’s World Cup qualifier with Norway, on the same day centre-back Gabriel Magalhaes limped out of Brazil’s friendly win over Senegal.

Italy vs Norway predictions: Azzurri victory won’t be enough

We’ve got three Italy vs Norway predictions for their decisive World Cup qualifier at the San Siro on Monday, 17 November.

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'It's a disgrace'- Gattuso blasts Italy fans after win

Italy national team coach Gennaro Gattuso has refused to accept criticism after his team left it late to win their World Cup qualifying match against Moldova. The World Cup winning former midfielder insists his side dominated the game despite what the scoreline suggested as he hit out at the fans for the reaction at the full-time whistle.

Moldova vs Italy predictions: Gli Azzurri left with no room for error

It’s time for our three Moldova vs Italy predictions as the two sides face off in their penultimate World Cup qualifier on Friday, 14 November.

How to buy Italy vs Norway World Cup Qualifier tickets

Fancy a trip to the San Siro to see a sensational international showdown? Here's how to get tickets

Chiesa declines international recall as Gattuso hints at 'problems'

Liverpool forward Federico Chiesa has turned down another international call up from Italy for November's World Cup qualifiers against Moldova and Norway. Manager Gennaro Gattuso has said he has spoken with Chiesa and must respect the 28-year-old's decision not to return to the national team. Chiesa has not played for Italy since Euro 2024 when the Azzurri were knocked out of the tournament in the last 16.

adidas FIFA World Cup 2026 home kit launch

adidas reveals 2026 FIFA World Cup home kits

adidas drops their largest ever collection of home kits ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026

Ex-Chelsea & Liverpool striker reveals club didn't feed him

Former Chelsea and Liverpool striker Fabio Borini has revealed he wanted to sue former club Sampdoria as they did not feed him during a lean patch in his career. Borini's revelations come just weeks after his surprise return to English football with Salford City, who are owned by members from Manchester United's 'Class of '92'. Back on English shores, the Italian will be looking to rebuild his career and rediscover his love for the game after what he describes as one of the darkest periods of his life.

Italy v North Macedonia: Group C - UEFA EURO 2024 European Qualifiers

Juve open talks with ex-Italy and Napoli boss after Tudor sacking

Juventus are in advanced talks with ex-Italy and Napoli coach Luciano Spalletti to replace Igor Tudor, who was sacked after a dismal run of results. The Bianconeri view Spalletti as the ideal figure to lead their rebuild, with negotiations already underway following the club’s decision to appoint Massimo Brambilla as interim boss.

Ancelotti's daughter reveals father's feud with Italy boss Gattuso

Carlo Ancelotti's daughter has revealed the ongoing feud between the Brazil coach and Gennaro Gattuso, which took place after the former was sacked by Napoli and the latter replaced him in charge. Ancelotti is labelled as a calm man by his daughter, but she says he was upset with the current Italy manager due to his decision to succeed him in that role.

Donnarumma defends Serie A and explains Premier League differences

Gianluigi Donnarumma highlighted the major difference between the style of play in Serie A and Premier League. Having spent six years in the Italian top-flight with AC Milan, the Italy national team captain made a summer switch to Manchester City, taking his goalkeeping talents to the English first division. Donnarumma firmly believes that Italian football is "no less than the others."

Gattuso vows to flee the country if Italy fail to reach World Cup

Italy national team coach Gennaro Gattuso has jokingly vowed to “flee the country” and live far away if his side fail to qualify for the World Cup for a third consecutive time. Despite a 3-0 victory over Israel, Italy may still have to secure qualification for the 2026 World Cup through the play-offs, as they currently sit second in their qualifying group.

Italy v Israel - FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier

Gattuso hails Donnarumma but needs 'God's blessing' for World Cup spot

Italy cruised to a 3-0 win over Israel in their World Cup qualifying clash on Tuesday, which sees the Azzurri stretch their winning streak to five games. Head coach Gennaro Gattuso was pleased with his side's performance and heaped praise on goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, while also hoping for "God's blessings" as they aim a World Cup play-off spot.

FC Internazionale v US Sassuolo Calcio - Serie A

Inter to double Esposito's wages after rejecting €50m offer

Inter have turned down a €50 million (£42m/$55m) bid for 20-year-old striker Francesco Pio Esposito and are preparing to double his salary in a new long-term deal. The Nerazzurri view the young Italian as a cornerstone of their future and a symbol of the Oaktree era after his rapid rise for both club and country.

Could Italy really fail to qualify for ANOTHER World Cup?!

Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso and captain Gianluigi Donnarumma both attended the inauguration of the new museum of football at Coverciano on Wednesday. Gattuso was meant to donate the boots he wore in the 2006 World Cup final win over France but revealed that his mother refused to give them up.

FC Parma Celebrate 100 years Anniversary

Italian goalkeeper becomes country's oldest-ever player at 82

Italian goalkeeper Lamberto Boranga became the country's oldest-ever football player at the age of 82 as he made his debut for seventh-tier USD Trevana. Boranga, who started his professional career more than six decades ago in 1961, briefly played with former Real Madrid and current Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti, when the 66-year-old was plying his trade for Parma.

Frequently asked questions

: The origins of Newcastle United can be traced all the way back to 1881, when Stanley Cricket Club of Byker took interest in the formation of a football club. Over the years, several name changes and mergers took place. Finally, on December 9, 1892, the name Newcastle United Football Club was decided upon. Other name suggestions included Newcastle F.C, Newcastle Rangers, Newcastle City, and City of Newcastle.
: Newcastle United is co-owned by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF), who hold an 85% stake, and the UK-based RB Sports & Media, who hold the remaining 15% stake. The takeover was completed in 2021.
: Newcastle United play their home games at the iconic St. James' Park, located in Newcastle upon Tyne. St. James' Park has been the club's go-to home venue since 1892.
: St. James' Park has a seating capacity of about 52,000, with Newcastle United currently planning an overhaul which will see the capacity rise to 65,000.
: Newcastle United have won 11 titles, including four top flight titles and six FA Cups.
: Newcastle United have won four first division titles in their history, with the most recent win coming almost a century ago, all the way back in 1926-27.
: Jimmy Lawrence has made the most appearances ever for Newcastle United, donning the jersey on 496 appearances to hold off fellow goalkeeper Shay Given among others.
: Newcastle United will forever revere perhaps their most iconic player ever, the legendary Alan Shearer, who scored a club record 206 goals in a little over 400 appearances.
: Shola Amoebi, Andy Cole, Shay Given, Bobby Mitchell, Alan Shearer, Hatem Ben Arfa, Andy Carroll, James Milner, Kevin Keegan, Paul Gasciogne, and Malcolm Macdonald are some of the most acclaimed footballers to have played for Newcastle United.
: Joe Harvey, Kenny Dalglish, Kevin Keegan, Steve Bruce, Rafael Benitez, and Ruud Gullit are some of the most famous managers to have been in charge of Newcastle United.
: Newcastle United are nicknamed The Magpies, because the black and white colour scheme on their jerseys is reminiscent of the actual magpie bird.

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