Four-time champions Italy national football team have failed to qualify for a third consecutive FIFA World Cup after a penalty shootout defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina national football team in Zenica.

Italy started strongly, with Moise Kean scoring early, but their momentum was disrupted when Alessandro Bastoni received a red card before half-time. Bosnia capitalised late, as Haris Tabaković equalised in the 79th minute to make it 1-1.

After a goalless extra time, the match went to penalties. Italy’s Francesco Pio Esposito and Bryan Cristante missed their spot kicks, while Esmir Bajraktarević converted the decisive penalty to send Bosnia through.

The result means Italy become the first former world champions to miss three consecutive World Cups, with their last appearance dating back to 2014. Their only triumphs remain the 1934, 1938, 1982, and 2006 editions.

Bosnia, on the other hand, qualify for just their second World Cup appearance, having previously featured in 2014. They are now set to compete in Group B alongside Canada, Qatar, and Switzerland.

The defeat is expected to intensify pressure on head coach Gennaro Gattuso, as Italy’s prolonged absence from football’s biggest stage continues.