Italy sack coach Spalletti after Norway defeat

Sunday, 8 June 2025 17:45

By Reuters

Luciano Spalletti has been sacked from his role as Italy's coach, the manager said on Sunday, following their heavy loss against Norway, but will take charge of Monday's game with Moldova.

Spalletti made the announcement at a press conference after Norway stunned Italy with a 3-0 win on Friday, handing the visitors a humiliating start to their World Cup qualifying campaign.

"Last night we were very together with president (Gabriele) Gravina. He told me that I will be relieved of my position as coach of the national team," Spalletti said.

"I had no intention of giving up. I would have preferred to stay in my place and continue doing my job. I'll be there tomorrow evening against Moldova, then we'll resolve the contract."

More from Sports News

Iran wait on World Cup progress after draw with Egypt

Iran face an anxious wait to see if they will progress to the World Cupknockout stage after they held Egypt to a 1-1 draw, which ended in dramatic fashion with an apparent last-ditch winner ruled out for offside.
Belgium beat New Zealand 5-1 to advance to World Cup knockout stage

Leandro Trossard scored twice as Belgium beat New Zealand 5-1 to breeze into the knockout stage of the World Cup, winning Group G to set up a last-32 clash with one of the eight best third-placed teams.
Baena strike sends Spain past Uruguay into World Cup knockouts

Spain edged Uruguay 1-0 on Friday to top Group H and reach the knockout stage of the World Cup, with Alex Baena's first-half strike enough to settle a tense, physical contest and leave Marcelo Bielsa's side out of the tournament.
Jubilant Cape Verde set date with Argentina in World Cup round of 32

Debutants Cape Verde prolonged their World Cup fairytale on Friday as they secured a place in the World Cup round of 32 following a 0-0 draw with Saudi Arabia to set up an unexpected clash with defending champions Argentina in Miami.
Senegal ring up 5-0 win over 10-man Iraq, keep knockout hopes alive

Substitute Pape Gueye scored a pair of sensational second-half goals from long range, and Senegal got a much-needed boost for their goal differential with a 5-0 victory over 10-man Iraq in their Group I finale on Friday in Toronto.