Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers match.
It seems that Italy remain mired in misfortune. Having missed the last two FIFA World Cup tournaments, they opened this qualifying campaign with a heavy 0:3 loss to Norway. That defeat prompted the manager’s resignation and has left both the squad and the federation in a state of clear disarray.
Italy
This will be Luciano Spalletti’s final match in charge of the national squad. His tactical approach has evidently failed to resonate, but the team must still find a way to secure a result. On paper, the squad boasts undeniable quality. Matteo Retegui, who scored 25 goals in the domestic league, is a key figure. With Gianluigi Donnarumma, a UEFA Champions League winner, between the posts, and four Inter Milan players who featured in the final, this group remains highly competitive.
Moldova
There is little doubt that Moldova are the weakest side in Group I. They have lost both of their qualifiers, shipping eight goals in the process—five to Norway and three more to Estonia. To compound their problems, leading striker Maxim Cojocaru was sent off in the previous fixture, further weakening an already ineffective frontline.
Italy vs Moldova Prediction
Despite their internal struggles, Italy have no margin for error against an opponent of this calibre, particularly on home soil. The supporters will not accept another sub-par performance, and the players will be expected to rise to the occasion. A dominant home victory is anticipated.
