As Italy prepares to face Moldova, coach Gennaro Gattuso is contemplating a tactical shift to a 4-4-2 formation. This upcoming match will take place at the Stadionul Zimbru in Chisinau on Thursday, with kickoff scheduled for 19:45 GMT. It marks an important fixture in the Group I qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup.
Moldova vs. Italy Match Preview
Italy’s squad has confirmed that Gianluca Scamacca, Giacomo Raspadori, and Guglielmo Vicario will start. However, the team faces challenges, including key injuries and suspensions. Moise Kean and Niccolò Cambiaghi have both withdrawn from the lineup, while Nicolò Barella is suspended.
Possible Starting Line-Up for Italy
- Goalkeeper: Guglielmo Vicario (Tottenham Hotspur)
- Defenders: Bellanova, Mancini, Buongiorno, Cambiaso
- Midfielders: Orsolini, Sandro Tonali, Bryan Cristante, Zaccagni
- Forwards: Gianluca Scamacca, Giacomo Raspadori
Initially, Federico Dimarco and Matteo Gabbia will start on the bench as Gattuso assesses his options. Italy needs to secure a victory to maintain pressure on group leaders Norway. As it stands, Italy’s goal difference is +10, while Norway boasts an impressive +26.
Implications for the Standings
This match is crucial as it is the penultimate fixture in Group I. Should Norway drop points against Estonia, Italy could still vie for the top spot in their group. The strategic decisions made by Gattuso in the formation and lineup could significantly influence Italy’s qualification campaign.
The match promises to be competitive, with Italy aiming to assert dominance on the road in Chisinau. Fans will be keen to see how Gattuso’s tactical adjustments play out against Moldova.
