Italy face backlash after players celebrate Bosnia-Herzegovina’s qualification | OneFootball

Italy’s march to the European play-off final has sparked controversy after several squad members celebrated Bosnia-Herzegovina’s qualification as their next opponents. L'Équipe reports that the reaction has drawn criticism in Italy and beyond.

Moments after a 2-0 semi-final win over Northern Ireland on Thursday, Rai cameras showed goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario and full-back Federico Dimarco watching a phone, then celebrating as Kerim Alajbegovic struck the decisive penalty in Cardiff, eliminating Wales. The final is on Tuesday 31 March at 20:45.

In Bosnia, social media posts accused Italy of disrespect and arrogance, and vowed a hostile reception in Zenica for the final.

In Italy, newspapers suggested the scenes could galvanise Edin Dzeko and his team-mates, and said head coach Gennaro Gattuso must ensure his players are ready for an electric atmosphere.

Others highlighted the celebrations, cautioning that wishing for a particular opponent could backfire and urging prudence.

Twelve years on from their last World Cup, the Azzurri are still far from assured of a place at this summer’s tournament in America, scheduled for 11 June to 19 July.

Source: L'Équipe