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.

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

Luciano Spalletti ended his time with Italy having won 12 of his 24 matches at the helm (D6 L6), with his team averaging 1.75 points per match