Where could Italy play in World Cup play-off semi-finals and final

The Italy national team have confirmed their spot in the World Cup play-offs following a 4-1 defeat at home against Norway on Sunday evening, but it remains to be seen where the Azzurri will play in the play-off semi-finals and in the final should they qualify. 

Despite leading through Pio Esposito at the interval, Italy went on to concede four goals after the hour mark against Norway: Antonio Nusa, Erling Haaland (x2) and Jorgen Strand Larsen delivering the blows. 

The result sent Norway through to the World Cup finals as winners of qualification Group I with their 100% win record in qualifying still intact. Italy finished in second place on 18 points from eight matches, winning six, but losing both games against Norway. 

The result also continued Italy’s alarming record when playing in San Siro. The national team have only won three of their last 13 games in Milan over a period that dates back almost 20 years. Even more troubling is the fact that they have lost their last three games at the Stadio Meazza. 

Fortunately for Gennaro Gattuso and his squad, it appears unlikely that they will return to San Siro for the play-off campaign according to Monday’s reports. 

According to updates from Calcio e Finanza and Sky Sport Italia, it is likely that Atalanta’s New Balance Arena will be the stadium of choice for the play-off semi-final on March 26, although this has not yet been officially confirmed. 

Bergamo hosted Gattuso for his debut as head coach of the Italy national team, which ended in a 5-0 victory over Estonia on September 5. 

If Italy win their semi-final and get to host the final at home, it is currently most likely that they will play at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome according to Monday’s reports.