Welcome to our live coverage of the 2026 World Cup qualifying match between Italy and Moldova. This crucial game kicks off at 19:45 UK time at the Mapei Stadium in Reggio Emilia.
This match marks Luciano Spalletti`s final game as Italy`s head coach, regardless of the result. The Azzurri are looking to bounce back after a disappointing 3-0 loss to Norway in their opening qualifier.
Moldova enter this match having lost both of their previous qualifiers, falling 5-0 to Norway and 3-2 to Estonia. Group I also includes Israel.
Team News
Italy Starting XI:
Donnarumma; Di Lorenzo, Bastoni, Ranieri; Cambiaso, Frattesi, Ricci, Tonali, Dimarco; Retegui, Raspadori
Moldova Starting XI:
Avram; Baboglo, Mudrac, Dumbravanu; Platica, Ionita, Bodisteanu, Reabciuk; Caimacov, Nicolaescu, Postolachi
Referee: Schnyder (Switzerland)
Pre-Match Updates
- The Italy team bus has arrived at the stadium
- Coach Spalletti is expected to address the media before kickoff
Stay tuned for live match updates as Italy looks to secure a crucial victory in their World Cup qualifying campaign.