Italy take on Moldova in World Cup qualification tonight in what will be Luciano Spalletti’s final game in charge.
Spalletti was sacked on Sunday but will oversee the fixture with Moldova before departing from his post. His dismissal comes after a nightmare start to qualification as the Azzurri were thrashed 3-0 in Norway. It followed a meek exit at Euro 2024 last summer as Italy crashed out to Switzerland in the last 16.
Luciano Spalletti’s press conference.#Azzurri#VivoAzzurropic.twitter.com/ZKG9Vm0ahd
— Italy ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (@Azzurri_En) June 8, 2025
Italy have failed to qualify for the last two World Cups and now face an uphill battle to catch leaders Norway. The Norwegians have made a perfect start with three wins from three, capitalising on Italy’s late start to the campaign to open up a big advantage.
Moldova perhaps present the ideal opposition for Italy to get back on track. They’ve lost all five previous meetings between the teams and have conceded eight goals in their opening two qualifiers.
Italy vs Moldova – Predicted lineup and team news
Italy team news
Spalletti could ring the changes after a disastrous defeat in Norway, but is likely to continue with his preferred 3-5-2 formation despite notable defensive absentees. Juventus wing-back Andrea Cambiaso and Inter Milan’s Federico Dimarco are options to come into the side on the flanks.
Diego Coppola, who is closing in on a transfer to Brighton, endured a debut to forget and could be replaced by Federico Gatti in central defence.
Italy predicted lineup
Italy possible starting lineup: Donnarumma; Di Lorenzo, Gatti, Bastoni; Cambiaso, Frattesi, Ricci, Tonali, Dimarco; Raspadori, Retegui.
When is Italy vs Moldova?
Italy host Moldova in World Cup qualification on Monday 8th June 2025. Kick-off is 7:45pm BST.
What TV channel is Italy vs Moldova?
There is no UK coverage for the match.
Read – Five transfers to watch before Tuesday’s mini-window deadline
See more – Iconic Performances: Ronaldo treble stuns Spain