Italy Face Haaland Threat Without Acerbi in Crucial World Cup Qualifier

Italy’s World Cup hopes suffered a blow as Francesco Acerbi declined a call-up, leaving coach Spalletti without a key defender to mark Erling Haaland, who has 40 goals in 41 games for Norway. With Buongiorno injured and Mancini dropped, Italy’s defense looks unsettled ahead of Friday’s must-win qualifier in Oslo.

When it comes to Italy’s preparations for their crucial World Cup qualifier against Norway, things are far from smooth. Francesco Acerbi, the defender who successfully marked Erling Haaland in past encounters, has turned down a national team call-up, citing a lack of respect from coach Luciano Spalletti. His absence leaves a void in Italy’s defense, especially with Haaland in red-hot form, having scored in both of Norway’s opening qualifiers.

Norway leads the group with six points and a plus-seven goal difference, while Italy is playing catch-up. Italy’s other defensive options are limited, with Alessandro Buongiorno injured and Gianluca Mancini left out. Potential replacements include Juventus' Federico Gatti, who is just returning from injury, and Matteo Gabbia of AC Milan. Italy might also shift Bastoni centrally.

Meanwhile, Moise Kean, fresh from a 19-goal season for Fiorentina, is a bright spot up front. Coach Spalletti emphasized the significance of this match, noting Italy’s past failures to qualify for the 2018 and 2022 World Cups. With Haaland boasting 40 goals in 41 matches for Norway, Italy must overcome both internal turmoil and an in-form opponent to stay in contention for direct qualification to the 2026 tournament in North America.