Gattuso leaves three players out of Italy squad for Norway game

Gattuso has left Tonali, Calafiori and Caprile out of Italy’s squad for the San Siro clash with Norway, signalling a cautious selection. Betting takeaway: back Italy to win by a modest margin (1-0 or 2-0) or target low-goals markets — a 9-goal Italy victory to avoid playoffs is extremely unlikely.

Gattuso leaves Tonali, Calafiori and Caprile out of Italy squad for Norway

Coach Gennaro Gattuso named a 23-man Italy squad for the World Cup qualifier against Norway at San Siro, with midfielders and defenders Sandro Tonali, Riccardo Calafiori and goalkeeper Elia Caprile omitted. The selections underline a pragmatic approach ahead of a fixture that, realistically, cannot secure direct World Cup qualification unless Italy win by nine goals.

Why the trio were left out

Elia Caprile was already absent from the matchday roster for the recent game in Moldova. Riccardo Calafiori remains sidelined with a hip problem and did not feature in that tie. Sandro Tonali was left out to avoid the risk of a yellow-card suspension that would rule him out of the World Cup playoff semifinal in March 2026.

What this means for Italy’s World Cup hopes

Italy need an extraordinary nine-goal victory over Norway to qualify directly for the 2026 World Cup, a scenario widely regarded as unrealistic. As a result, Gattuso appears to be managing player availability and disciplinary risk with an eye on the playoff route, where key men must be fit and eligible.

Tactical and squad implications

The absences reduce midfield and defensive depth, potentially forcing Gattuso to rely on alternative midfield combinations and defensive cover. Expect a measured, control-oriented Italy side rather than an all-out attacking gamble designed to chase an astronomical goal difference.

Betting implications for punters

With a conservative selection and the near-impossibility of a nine-goal victory, punters should adjust expectations: - Favor Italy to win or draw/win markets but avoid bets requiring a huge winning margin. - Consider low-total goals markets (under 3.5) or Italy to win by a one- or two-goal margin (1-0, 2-0). - Norway on +1 or +2 handicap markets could offer value if you expect a tighter game. - Avoid long-shot bets tied to Italy achieving direct qualification; the playoff route is the far more probable outcome.

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