\n
Novak Djokovic made a surprise public appearance on Tuesday night to attend Italy’s dramatic World Cup playoff defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina, a result that sealed the Azzurri’s historic exit from the 2026 tournament.<\/p>\n
The former world number one tennis player was spotted in the stands at Zenica’s Vilino Polje Stadium, where Bosnia won 4-1 on penalties after trailing 1-1 until the 120th minute. His presence was confirmed by the Bosnia and Herzegovina Football Association.<\/p>\n
Djokovic, a well-known soccer fan and supporter of AC Milan, received applause from fans in Bosnia and Italy as cameras caught him watching the decisive play-off clash.<\/p>\n
Moise Kean scored the opening goal in the 15th minute and Italy looked to be on the move from the start. However, Bosnia’s Haris Tabakovi struck back after the delay, and the equalizer in the 79th minute forced extra time.<\/p>\n
Italy’s World Cup drought reaches historic lows<\/h2>\n
Neither team could find a winner before the shootout, with Bosnia converting four shots to Italy’s just one, qualifying and sending the four-time world champions home.<\/p>\n
With this loss, the Italian national soccer team will miss out on the World Cup for the third consecutive year, an unprecedented streak for a former champion nation.<\/p>\n
Italy previously lost to Sweden and North Macedonia in the play-offs, missing out on the tournament in 2018 and 2022.<\/p>\n
Despite beating Northern Ireland 2-0 in last week’s semi-final, Italy bounced back under pressure but ultimately fell short against Zenica.<\/p>\n
Djokovic’s passion for soccer is on display<\/h2>\n
Djokovic’s presence underlined the long-standing ties between the Balkans and football beyond Italy. The Serbian star is widely admired across the region and frequently expresses his appreciation for Italian culture and sport.<\/p>\n
After Bosnia’s recent playoff win over Wales, Djokovic publicly congratulated his team on social media, posting a message of congratulations and praise for captain Edin Dzeko.<\/p>\n
Although the tennis schedule has been delayed recently following Djokovic’s recent departure from the ATP, his appearance in Zenica put one of the most prominent figures in global sport at the center of a historic night that deepened the ongoing soccer crisis in Italy and sparked celebrations across Bosnia and Herzegovina.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
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