Moore to miss potential Italy 2026 World Cup play-off for Wales | OneFootball

Italy’s World Cup play-offs could see them take on Wales, but it is now confirmed Wrexham striker Kieffer Moore won’t be part of that potential tie due to injury.

The Azzurri risk missing out on the third consecutive edition of the World Cup, after failing in the play-offs for 2018 and 2022.

Italy road to 2026 World Cup is via play-offs

WASHINGTON, DC – DECEMBER 04: Final preparations are made as FIFA World Cup 2026 Final Draw signage is displayed outside the Kennedy Center on December 04, 2025 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

They will host Northern Ireland in Bergamo in the semi-final on March 26, then if victorious will go on to play either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina in the final five days later.

It is therefore important to take note of the Wales squad, and Moore is not going to be a part of it, as confirmed by Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson.

“He’s got this tendon injury which he feels OK with, but he’s shown up on the scan and it’s one of those injuries that, up to 80-85% you’re fine, but if you extend beyond that you make yourself susceptible to muscle injuries.”

The 33-year-old centre-forward has 15 goals in 52 senior caps for Wales.

Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso is set to name his squad list for the World Cup play-offs over the next few days.