FIGC president Gabriele Gravina confirmed last week that Italy will likely host the World Cup playoff semi-final against Northern Ireland at the New Balance Arena in Bergamo, home of Serie A side Atalanta.
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Atalanta stadium likely to host Italy-Northern Ireland match
BERGAMO, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 5: (EDITOR’S NOTE: In this photo taken with a remote camera from behind the goal) Moise Kean of Italy scores his team’s first goal during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match between Italy and Estonia at the Stadio di Bergamo on September 5, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Mattia Ozbot/Getty Images)
The Azzurri will play on March 26, 2026 and, if they advance to the final, they will visit Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina on March 31.
Wales has chosen the Cardiff City Stadium for its World Cup play-off matches, while Bosnia will play the possible final at the Bilino Polje in Zenica.
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Gattuso’s debut in Italy in Bergamo
BERGAMO, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 5: Coach Gennaro Gattuso of Italy gestures during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification match between Italy and Estonia at Stadio di Bergamo on September 5, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Mattia Ozbot/Getty Images)
As Repubblica reports, Gattuso and the federation were delighted with the reception received in Bergamo on September 5, when the coach made his debut as Nazionale coach, beating Estonia 5-0.
Nearly 23,000 fans attended the match and expressed their support, also thanks to the stands near the pitch. Italy hopes the Bergamo fans can do the same next year, as the Azzurri will need the full support of the home crowd in a vital match.
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According to Repubblica, if Italy had played the final at home, Udine, Rome and Turin (Allianz Stadium) would have been the favorites to host Italy’s two matches, but with only one play-off tie being played domestically, the Bergamo option was predominant and is expected to be confirmed in the coming days.