Italy have failed to qualify for a World Cup for the first time since 1958, after drawing blanks against Sweden in the San Siro. 

After losing the first leg of the playoff round 1-0, Italy desperately needed to win tonight. However, Sweden stood firm and managed to book themselves a spot at the tournament in Russia at the expense of the 2006 World Cup winners. 

It was a particularly sad moment for Italy’s experienced goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon, who will now bow out of international football on a low.

The result will also prove disappointing to a large chunk Maltese football fans, who will now have to find another team to support in next year’s tournament. 

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Tim Diacono

Tim is interested in the rapid evolution of human society and is passionate about justice, human rights and cutting-edge political debates. You can follow him on Instagram or Twitter/X at @timdiacono or reach out to him at [email protected]