The upcoming World Cup qualifying match between Italy and Moldova is set to take place on June 9, 2025, at the Stadio Città del Tricolore. Italy enters this match as a heavy favorite despite recent struggles, including a disappointing 3-0 loss to Norway in their previous qualifier . Historically, Italy has dominated their encounters with Moldova, winning all five previous matches and averaging three goals per game . This context adds significant pressure on the Italian squad to secure a decisive victory.
which cost Spalletti his job. The reverse has already left Italy playing catch-up to their Scandinavian foes after conceding three first-half strikes and extending their winless run to four matches.
Italy should have no issues brushing Moldova aside, though. They demolished the European minnows the last time they crossed paths, winning 6–0 in an international friendly in 2020. FIFA’s 154th-ranked country have lost both their qualifiers to date, conceding eight across defeats to Norway and Estonia.
Spalletti had been in charge for less than two years since taking over from Roberto Mancini, and it's unclear how the players will respond here with the knowledge that he will be departing in the aftermath.
Regardless, the hosts should still have too much quality for a Moldova side who are yet to put a point on the board in Group I.
Italy’s aura has diminished, and the tension around the squad could open the door for a spirited Moldovan performance. Still, the numbers do not lie: Moldova have lost all four previous World Cup qualifiers against Italy, shipping nine goals and scoring just two.
The last time they met, in a 2019 friendly, they were beaten 6-0. If they are to pull off what would be one of the biggest shocks in their history, it will require discipline, organisation, and a slice of fortune. The Hard Tackle takes a look at how both sides could line up and what tactics they might employ on the day.
Italy possible starting lineup: Donnarumma; Di Lorenzo, Ranieri, Bastoni; Cambiaso, Frattesi, Ricci, Tonali, Udogie; Raspadori, Retegui
Moldova possible starting lineup: Avram; Platica, Posmac, Baboglo, Mudrac, Reabciuk; Caicamov, Motpan, Rata, Ionita; Nicolaescu
Moldova could potentially avoid defeat in one or both halves, whether Italy start slowly or get off to a fast start but ease up in the second half.
Italy have failed to win both halves against this opposition in their last two competitive meetings. This is likely to happen again on Monday night, especially considering the internal issues involving veteran defender Francesco Acerbi and the Italian leadership, as well as the injury to Matteo Gabbia.
Read more
Croatia vs Czech Republic - prediction, FREE online stream , lineups Stocks Rise on Hopes for China-US Talks; Dollar WeakensSara H
Also on site :
- Croatia vs Czech Republic - prediction, FREE online stream , lineups
- Watch match live Belgium vs Wales - prediction & lineups
- Estonia vs Norway -Match news , lineups and live streaming