Italy strengthened their chances of reaching the FIFA World Cup 2026 playoffs with a 3-1 victory against Estonia on Saturday. Goals from Moise Kean, Mateo Retegui, and Francesco Pio Esposito sealed the win in Tallinn.
The result gives Italy 12 points from five matches in Group I, three ahead of Israel, with a game in hand. Norway lead the group with 18 points after their 5-0 win over Israel earlier in the day. The group winners will qualify directly for the World Cup, while the runners-up will move to the playoffs.
Italy started fast, taking the lead in the fourth minute. Federico Dimarco passed to Moise Kean, who turned past his marker and fired into the far corner. It was Kean’s fourth goal in three games for Italy, but his night ended early when he left the field with an injury. He was replaced by Esposito, making just his second international appearance.
Retegui had a chance to double the lead when he won a penalty after being fouled by Marten Kuusk, but his shot was tipped onto the post by Estonian goalkeeper Karl Hein.
“The important thing is to create,” said Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso. “Missing chances or penalties can happen. The boys are eager and going in the right direction.”
Retegui made up for the missed penalty just before halftime. Riccardo Orsolini delivered a perfect pass from the byline, and Retegui smashed the ball home from close range to make it 2-0.
In the second half, Esposito added a third to secure the victory before Estonia pulled one back late on. The win keeps Italy firmly in the playoff race as they continue their push to return to the World Cup after missing the last two editions.
