Italy Coach Gattuso Defends Team After Moldova Win

Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso faced criticism from fans after his side clinched a late World Cup qualifying win over Moldova, but the passionate manager refused to accept negative reactions, defending his squad’s performance and emphasizing unity as Italy heads into the play-offs.

Italy Coach Gattuso Responds to Fan Criticism

Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso was quick to respond to the criticism from the traveling Azzurri supporters following their tense World Cup qualifying victory against Moldova. The match saw Italy dominate possession, controlling 82 percent of the ball in the first half and creating several clear chances, but a lack of clinical finishing kept the scoreline goalless until the final minutes.

Gattuso rotated his squad, fielding eleven new players from the start, a decision he admitted could threaten the team’s balance. Speaking post-match, he said, “It’s fine, putting 11 new players out from the start is difficult. I felt within myself we could even lose today, but I tip my hat to them, they did better than I expected.”

Late Goals Seal Italy’s World Cup Play-Off Place

Despite Italy’s control of the game, Moldova proved resilient, frustrating the Italians and their fans for much of the match. The introduction of Mateo Retegui and young striker Pio Esposito injected new energy into the attack, and it was late goals from Gianluca Mancini and Esposito that ultimately secured a hard-earned 2-0 victory.

Gattuso’s satisfaction with his players was evident, even as he voiced his disappointment at the reaction from the 500 traveling fans, who chanted for the players to “go to work” during the final minutes. “The protests from the fans are a disgrace, I’m sorry for what I heard today,” Gattuso stated. “This isn’t the time to tell the players to go to work. We need to stay united, because the team is struggling on the pitch.”

Comparisons and Play-Off Pressure

Italy’s main rivals, Norway, thrashed Moldova 11-1 earlier in the campaign, but Gattuso dismissed comparisons. “If you were expecting an 11-1 like Moldova had against Norway, then that is not my problem. There are no easy matches,” he insisted. The Azzurri now sit three points behind Norway, whom they face in the final group match at San Siro. However, Italy’s inferior goal difference means direct qualification is unlikely; a place in the play-offs seems almost certain.

Italy’s World Cup Qualification Journey

The pressure is mounting on Gattuso, who was appointed to turn around Italy’s fortunes after their absence from the previous two World Cups. The national team has not qualified for the tournament since 2014, suffering heartbreak in the play-offs against Sweden and North Macedonia. The upcoming matches will test the squad’s resolve and Gattuso’s leadership as they aim to secure a return to football’s grandest stage in 2026.

Gattuso Questions Qualification System

Gattuso expressed frustration with the current qualification rules, arguing that Italy’s record should have ensured a direct place in the World Cup. “In my day, the top team in each group would go through, plus the best runners-up. We have 18 points, we have won six games, and still we have to go into another two matches to qualify. It does not seem right,” he commented.

Focus Shifts to Norway Clash

Italy now prepares to host Norway at San Siro, with eyes also on the play-offs that will decide their fate. The squad’s depth and adaptability will be tested against a formidable Norwegian side. For Gattuso, the focus remains on unity and belief, declaring, “I’m convinced we’ll get what we need because these lads are strong. Winning boosts self-esteem.”

Opinion: Unity Needed for Italy’s World Cup Dream

Despite criticism, Italy’s performance showed promise and resilience. Gattuso’s calls for unity should resonate with fans, who have witnessed a team struggling to rediscover its identity on the world stage. The play-offs represent a critical juncture; with the right mentality and support, Italy can finally end their World Cup drought. For more news, visit for more news.