Sweden a long-time jinx to Italy when it comes to foiling their hopes at major tournaments
Whether playing the Swedish team or playing in Sweden, the Scandinavian country has been associated with some of four-time champions Italy’s darkest moments in football
Italy’s failure to qualify for the World Cup for the first time in six decades should not come as a shock to those who believe in fate, destiny and jinxes.
Yes, Italy were expected to beat Sweden in their play-off. But the Scandinavian country has been associated with some of the Azzurri’s darkest moments in football.
Italy’s run of bad luck with Sweden dates all the way back to 1950 when, having won the previous two World Cups, they suffered their first ever defeat in the tournament – at the hands of the Swedes. As a result, they failed to progress to the second round.
Eight years later, Italy needed just a point to qualify for the World Cup but surprisingly lost to Northern Ireland. That was the last time Italy failed to qualify for the World Cup. The tournament was held in Sweden.
And the last time Italy failed to qualify for a major tournament was the 1992 European Championship. The Azzurri had to beat the former USSR to qualify but hit the post in a 0-0 draw and missed out on the finals – held in Sweden.
Italy also failed to qualify for Euro 1984 despite being world champions, after two qualifying defeats to Sweden – including a 3-0 loss in Naples.
