Italy vs Sweden News
The last time Italy failed to reach the World Cup was for the 1958 tournament in Sweden.
The playoff puts Italy`s proud record of World Cup participation in danger.
The Azzurri are tied with Germany for most appearances by a European nation, 18. But Germany have already made sure of a 19th berth.
Italy are also the only one of the eight previous winners not yet sure of their place in this World Cup.
Italy, 2-0 winners over Belgium last week, now top Group E with six points, leaving Sweden, realistically needing to beat Belgium on Wednesday if they are to have any hope of making it to the knockout phase.
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