Modric warns: Italy's World Cup absence would be catastrophic as playoff drama heats up for 2026

World Cup playoff stakes rise as Italy teeters

Croatian star Luka Modric, Milan's marquee player, warned that Italy's World Cup absence would be catastrophic.

Italy will have to go through the playoff to reach the 2026 World Cup in the United States after failing to qualify directly behind Norway.

Italy will face Northern Ireland in the semifinal, with the winner of Wales vs Bosnia and Herzegovina awaiting in final if they advance.

Modric told La Gazzetta dello Sport: 'It would be a catastrophe if Italy miss out on the Cup for the third time'.

He added, 'I hope Italy qualifies; big nations will attend the World Cup, and Italy is among the best for the next edition'.

The playoff is always tough, but I wish Italy luck in qualifying. I'll still be waiting for them.

Croatia will enter Cup group England, Ghana and Panama; Modric said, 'England are strong, but we won't underestimate anyone. It's a tough group; we must prepare'.

He concluded, 'The World Cup is far away; for now we focus on the present and on Milan, to keep this run going'.

Punchline 1: If drama were a sport, Italy would win every playoff—the trophy would be a calendar of late-night decisions.

Punchline 2: And if they miss out again, well, Milan can fund a nerve- soothing fan club for us all.