What Italy need to do to qualify for Euro 2024?

The Azzurri face a challenging task to qualify for the Euro 2024 with just two matchdays to go

The defending champions Italy are in a vulnerable position as the final rounds of the UEFA Euro 2024 qualifiers approach. The Azzurri will need to perform well to guarantee their place in the tournament in Germany. There is a sense of expectation and nervousness among the Italian supporters as they have two crucial matches in Group C, with destiny firmly in their hands.

There is a sense of uneasiness about what’s to come in Rome against North Macedonia since it brings back memories of Aleksandar Trajkovski’s previous exploits. Italy’s continuing problem has been turning possession into goals, a problem that has been evident in both the current Euro qualifiers and the World Cup qualifying campaign.

In the current campaign of Euro 2024 qualifiers, Italy’s results have been uneven, with both impressive victories and losses. Italy suffered a difficult 1-2 loss to England but managed a 2-1 win over Ukraine and after that a 2-0 win over Malta. A 1-1 draw with North Macedonia indicated a difficult match, given their next game against the same opponent. Yet again, Italy showed a mixed outcome against Malta and England. After thrashing Malta for 4-0, Italy was beaten by England in a 3-1 thriller. It appears as though Italy’s hopes of qualifying will be determined by the upcoming matches against North Macedonia and Ukraine.

Italy is going to face North Macedonia first on 18th November in Rome, Italy. This is going to be on their home soil, so they might have a slight advantage. The matchday 9 needs to be won by Italy anyhow! The next game of Italy is against Ukraine on 21st November in Leverkusen. The matchday 10 is going to decide the fate of the defending champions. Even in a scoreless match against Ukraine after a victory over North Macedonia, the complex equation offers a bit of optimism.

Qualification scenario

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Italy’s future is in the balance as they attempt to qualify for the Euro 2024 to be held in Germany. Although defeating North Macedonia appears to be the first step towards certainty, there are many uncertainties and significant risks along the path. The match against Ukraine is a decisive match that will determine who finishes second in Group C after England.

A victory over Ukraine might guarantee them an automatic place behind England in the points table. But even in a stalemate match against Ukraine after a victory over North Macedonia, this intricate equation presents some hope. However, the dangerous outcome of losing their last game hovers heavily in the background. An embarrassing slip-up like this may send the Azzurri into the playoffs, a situation that has befallen the team in past World Cup qualifying campaigns.

For Italy, these games are far more important than just any other games as they represent the will to avoid the nightmare of playoff games. The Azzurri’s quest for Euro 2024 is closely linked to their ability to overcome hardships and the intense desire of the nation to have an unobstructed route to the tournament.

History of Italy in the UEFA European Championship

Italy’s history at the UEFA European Championship is a rich tapestry of victories, setbacks, and a memorable comeback. In 1968, the Azzurri won the title for the first time. They defeated Yugoslavia in the final and inked history. However, the campaigns that followed were a mix of difficulties and near misses. Their 2000 tournament journey ended in disappointment when they lost to France in extra time, finishing as runners-up. Their efforts also brought them to the final game in 2012, but Spain won and Italy failed to win the title.

However in 2020, under Roberto Mancini’s leadership, the story took a victorious turn. Italy defeated Belgium and Spain in the knockout stages, continuing their domination from the group stages. The thrilling final match against England at Wembley set up a nail-biting penalty shootout that served as the match’s grand finale. After a 53-year break, the Azzurri prevailed and won their second UEFA European Championship. The victory was evidence of Italy’s lasting influence on the continent as it represented a thunderous comeback, restoring their strength and ability in European football.

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