Jorginho boost as FIFA ‘to hold’ play-off that could hand Italy World Cup spot | OneFootball

Italy could be handed a route back into the 2026 World Cup, a development Flamengo midfielder Jorginho is monitoring.

According to The Athletic, Iran may withdraw from the tournament. In that case, FIFA intends to stage a semi-final between sides who narrowly missed out, potentially giving Italy another shot.

The situation is off the pitch and has lasted months. Iran is at war with the United States and Israel, creating the possibility the team will not go to a World Cup also staged in the United States.

Iran are in Group G and are scheduled to open on 15 June at 22:00 Brasília time against New Zealand, then face Belgium and Egypt on 21 and 27 June.

Italy suffered a bruising exit in the European play-offs. They advanced by eliminating Northern Ireland, then lost on penalties to Bosnia and Herzegovina, missing a third successive World Cup.

Jorginho had been named in Italy’s preliminary squad for the decisive play-off games. Should a reprieve arrive, he could come back into contention. He has not featured for the national side since Euro 2024 against Croatia.

Source: Coluna Do Fla