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With the conclusion of the European qualifiers, Italy is preparing to face the play-offs to try to obtain a place in the 2026 FIBA WC, which will be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The national team, led by coach Gattuso, finished second in its group, behind Norway, and now awaits its play-off opponents.
The draw, scheduled for Thursday at 13 p.m. in Zurich, will determine the four pairings for the semifinals, scheduled for March 26, and the finals, which will take place on March 31. The tension is palpable, given that only four of the sixteen participating teams will qualify for the World Cup.
The qualification system and the bands
The competition will be played through a playoff mechanism, with teams divided into four pots. The teams that finished second in the twelve European qualifying groups will join four teams selected from the Nations LeagueThe latter are those who have not already obtained a direct pass to the World Cup.
Bands and couplings
The first group features prestigious nations such as Italy, Denmark, Turkey, and Ukraine. Pot two teams include Poland and Wales, while pot three consists of Ireland, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Kosovo. Finally, pot four features teams relegated from the Nations League: Romania, Sweden, Northern Ireland, and North Macedonia.
The draw will pair the teams from Pot 1 with those from Pot 4, and those from Pot 2 with those from Pot 3. This means that Italy will face one of the teams from Pot 4, such as Sweden, Northern Ireland, Romania, or North Macedonia, in the semifinals, playing at home.
Italy's opponents and their stories
Every opponent has its own history and footballing tradition. For example, Sweden, which has a significant history in international football, is also remembered for inflicting Italy's first World Cup qualification defeat in 1958. This historic matchup adds an additional layer of tension and significance to any potential matchup.
Another fearsome team is Northern Ireland, who have shown they can surprise even the strongest nations. Romania and North Macedonia, though less well-known, should not be underestimated. Every match will be a battle, and Italy will need to be prepared to give it their all to succeed.
The road to the World Cup
To qualify for the World Cup, Italy must advance to the playoffs. The semifinals will be crucial, and if they win, their journey will culminate in the final, where their dream of participating in the World Cup will be within reach. The pressure is high, but the team's determination and talent can make the difference.
It's crucial that Italy capitalize on home advantage in the semifinals and that the fans' support can further boost the team. Expectations are high, and the Italian people hope to see their national team back on the world stage.