Italy Plot a Plan to Make It Back to the World Cup in Qatar

The Italy national team has historically been a powerhouse in the world of football. They won the World Cup in 2006 and most recently won the UEFA Euros in 2021 trophy after beating England in the final. However, they have failed to make it to the World Cup since 2014.

This time around, the reigning European champions were knocked out of the play-offs to go to the World Cup by North Macedonia. Macedonia were massive underdogs for the match and yet managed to take out a 1-0 win that took them to the next round.

However, they were knocked out by Portugal who booked their spot in the biggest tournament on the planet.

Controversy surrounding Ecuador might give Italy a chance in World Cup 2022

Given the stature of the competition, the stakes are really high and there will always be some drama. This time around, it has surrounded Ecuador who might be banned from the World Cup if the allegations surrounding them are proven right.

They played Byron Castillo, a defender who is allegedly Columbian and also lied about his age, in their World Cup qualifying matches. A former member of the Italian National Olympic Committee (CONI), Franco Chimenti, brought this up when he said that Italy still have a chance to qualify for the World Cup in an interview with Football Italia.

“There is still a chance to see Italy at the World Cup and it’s more concrete than what people think. Apparently, Ecuador have used a player who was not allowed to be on the pitch and could pay for it,” Chimenti said.

How can Italy make it back to the World Cup?

Chimenti also added that if Ecuador does get banned, it would open the door for another team to take their spot. He cited a FIFA rule that states that the highest-ranking nation in the FIFA rankings will take Ecuador’s spot, which is currently Italy.

“If it happens, another country should replace them and the FIFA rules state that the highest country in the FIFA ranking should be recalled, at the moment, it is Italy,” he added.

This means the Euro 2020 champions still have a chance to compete in the World Cup.

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