Italy failed to reach the 2018 Russia World Cup

Four-time champions Italy failed to reach the 2018 Russia World Cup for the first time since 1958 after a play-off defeat against Sweden. Although Italy is stronger, Sweden sat back on their advantage and, despite the hosts enjoying 76% possession, they failed to find the breakthrough. While Italy dominated the second leg and had 20 shots at goal, their exertions radiated a growing sense of desperation. Many of the Italy players fell to the ground at the full-time whistle, with strikers Andrea Belotti and Immobile reduced to tears, as the Swedes ran off to enthusiastically celebrate their qualification for next summer's tournament in Russia. World Cup winner Buffon, who was also tearful at the final whistle, said: "I am not sorry for myself but all of Italian football . We failed at something which also means something on a social level." Captain Gianluigi Buffon was earning his 175th cap for Italy and the 39-year-old goalkeeper confirmed it was his last internat...