Italy and France Kick Off Their 2026 World Cup Campaigns with Convincing Wins
If you’re a soccer fan, the thrill of international competition is hard to beat. This past weekend marked the beginning of the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign, and the excitement was palpable in Paris and beyond. Italy’s new coach Gennaro Gattuso kicked off his tenure in style with a fantastic 5-0 win against Estonia, while France navigated to a solid victory over Ukraine, securing a 2-0 scoreline.
Gattuso, a former World Cup-winning midfielder from 2006, faced the crucial task of reviving Italy’s fortunes after two disappointing qualifiers. His players responded splendidly, with standout performances from Moise Kean, who launched a flurry of goals, and Mateo Retegui, who scored twice. The Italian team’s enthusiasm was infectious, resonating with fans as they chanted Gattuso’s name in Bergamo.
Italy currently sits third in Group I, six points behind leaders Norway. Despite the challenges ahead—especially with only the top spot guaranteeing direct qualification—there’s an air of optimism following this emphatic victory. Gattuso credited the squad’s hard work and mentality, emphasizing the importance of attacking play. “We played well… The boys have been amazing this week,” he remarked.
Meanwhile, France, the 2018 World Cup champions, also showcased their prowess with a strong performance. Michael Olise opened the scoring before the superstar Kylian Mbappe secured the game with his 51st international goal. Coach Didier Deschamps praised Olise for his brilliance, highlighting his impressive combination of skill and movement throughout the match. France now sits second in Group D, trailing behind Iceland after the opening fixtures.
Across the qualifiers, other matches produced exciting results, such as Greece dominating Belarus 5-1 and Switzerland thrashing Kosovo 4-0. As the groups unfold, it’s clear that the path to the World Cup will be filled with fierce competition.
In the world of soccer, every match tells a story, and these early rounds set the stage for what promises to be an electrifying journey to the World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. For those looking to stay connected with the latest in sports developments or seeking more about international soccer, following trusted sources like Pro21st can be a great way to keep your finger on the pulse!
