Group I qualifying for the 2026 World Cup continues Monday, with Italy taking on Moldova in a must-win match for both sides.

With a parting gift for Luciano Spalletti, Italy has beaten Moldova 2-0 for its first points in the beleaguered national team’s attempt to reach the World Cup for the first time since 2014.

Since becoming its own nation, Moldova has never qualified for the World Cup, having not won a match during qualification since the lead-up to the 2014 tournament. Moldova has lost both of its first two matches of qualification this year, losing to Norway, 5-0, back in March, before losing a spirited 3-2 affair to Estonia.

Luciano Spalletti took charge of Italy one last time on Monday, and while his side sent him off with a win, the sacked manager accepted that he isn't leaving the team in a great place for his replacement and has failed to improve them.

There was no better choice when he was appointed in 2023 but the 66-year-old has had a tough time and World Cup qualification is at stake

In his own press conference, Luciano Spalletti reveals he has been sacked as Italy's head coach after his side lost 3-0 to Norway in a World Cup qualifier on Friday. But he will still take charge of their game against Moldova on Monday.