Gattuso: ‘Apologies to Italy fans, team must not get scared’

Italy's 4-1 home defeat to Norway under Gennaro Gattuso exposed a worrying second-half collapse. Punters should consider Norway or Over 2.5 goals markets and avoid backing Italy to keep a clean sheet; Norway handicap markets may offer value ahead of the World Cup play-offs.

Gattuso Apologises After Italy Humiliated 4-1 by Norway

Italy suffered a heavy 4-1 home defeat to Norway as Gennaro Gattuso publicly apologised to supporters after a damaging second-half collapse that leaves questions over mentality and organisation ahead of the World Cup play-offs.

Early Brightness, Devastating Second Half

Italy began brightly, taking the lead through Francesco Pio Esposito, but the match turned dramatically after the break. Erling Haaland scored twice and Antonio Nusa and Jørgen Strand Larsen also found the net as Norway produced a ruthless response to overturn the deficit and run away with the win.

Gattuso: “We Have to Apologise”

Gennaro Gattuso admitted the result was “heavy” and apologised to the fans. He praised the first-half performance but said the team failed to reproduce that intensity after the interval. “We lost our shape,” he said. “We were pressing well in the first half, then we started to lose the ball too cheaply, gave Norway space, and got pushed back. When opponents create chances, we start to get scared — that must change.”

Tactical Breakdown: Loss of Shape and Confidence

The match highlighted a collapse in pressing discipline and an increase in misplaced passes after half-time. Norway exploited the gaps, with Haaland capitalising on space in behind and teammates finishing clinically. Italy’s defensive frailties and mental fragility under pressure were starkly exposed.

Implications for the World Cup Play-Offs

Italy now face a break before regrouping only days ahead of the World Cup play-off semi-final scheduled for March 26, with the final around March 31 if they progress. The coaching staff must address the second-half mentality and defensive organisation quickly to avoid another shock result in knockout football.

What This Means for Bettors

The scoreline and performance suggest Italy are vulnerable, particularly in the second half, boosting the appeal of Norway and goals markets. Punters may find value in backing Norway, over markets (2.5+), or handicap options favoring Norway while avoiding bets on Italy to keep a clean sheet.

Next Steps

Attention now turns to squad recovery and tactical adjustments during the break. The national side must rebuild confidence and consistency if it hopes to navigate the play-offs and secure a place at the World Cup.

Gennaro Gattuso apologised to the Italy fans after a 4-1 drubbing at the hands of...

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