Iconic Inter Milan President Defends Pio Esposito After Italy Defeat Vs Bosnia & Herzegovina: “Should Not Have Taken First Penalty” | OneFootball

Former Inter Milan president Massimo Moratti has stood up for Francesco Pio Esposito after Italy’s defeat in Zenica last night.

Speaking to Napoli Network via FCInter1908, Moratti questioned the decision to let the youngster take the opening penalty.

Italy suffered a heartbreaking defeat to Bosnia & Herzegovina in their 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff tie.

Despite taking an early lead through Moise Kean, Gennaro Gattuso’s side failed to live up to their tag as pre-match favorites.

Indeed, Alessandro Bastoni picked up a straight red card late in the first half, handing Bosnia’s comeback hopes a major boost.

Meanwhile, Haris Tabakovic scored off the bench to take the game into extra time and eventually a penalty shootout.

Francesco Pio Esposito, who took Mateo Retegui’s place in the second half, decided to take the first penalty.

Unfortunately, the Nerazzurri starlet fluffed his lines from the spot, skying the ball well over the top.

It was a courageous decision, yet it’s debatable whether Gattuso should have allowed the 20-year-old to open the series.

Massimo Moratti Defends Pio Esposito After Italy Loss vs Bosnia & Herzegovina

“The third failed World Cup qualification is something that will weigh on all of us for days, without exception,” Moratti said. “To put it less formally: the defeat in Bosnia is a massive blow for Italian football. It hurts to miss out once again – we all live and breathe football, it’s part of the fabric of our nation.

“I won’t hide the fact that I struggled to fall asleep last night because I kept thinking about the penalty shootout defeat. Those responsible must feel the weight of this moment: yes, we need to reset.

“Gravina is very articulate, attentive, and tied to procedure. But football, as I said, is in our DNA and, when things go wrong, instinctively you should take a step back. Apologizing is a sign of strength, not weakness. I also feel for Gattuso – it wouldn’t have been easy for anyone in his position.

“He showed courage, but I believe it was a mistake to let Pio Esposito take the first penalty. Pio is a talented player with great potential, but handling that moment emotionally must have been terrible.

“He has excellent qualities, but continuing to compare him to superstar players is a big mistake.

“De Laurentiis’ comments? I can’t get involved in certain dynamics between presidents, but on one point he’s right: a 16-team league would certainly be more interesting.”