European champions Italy fail to qualify for FIFA World Cup 2022

Palermo (Italy): European champions Italy missed their second straight FIFA World Cup after suffering a 0-1 shock defeat at the hands of North Macedonia in their play-offs on Thursday evening.

The loss comes just after eight months since Italy celebrated one of their greatest triumphs - defeating England to win the Euro 2020 at Wembley.

North Macedonia will now take on Portugal in the final of Path C qualifying on March 29.

Italy pressed throughout the match proceedings but failed to find the back of the net, thanks to brilliant defending from North Macedonia.

Aleksandar Trajkovski netted a sensational winner in the 92nd minute to spark jubilation on the North Macedonia bench, while the Azzurri went down on their knees in front of their home fans. (UNI)