Image: Virgilio Sport

Bosnia Defeats Italy on Penalties; Donnarumma Says He 'Cried Because of Enormous Sadness'

02 April, 2026.Sports.20 sources

Key Takeaways

Bosnia and Herzegovina defeated Italy on penalties (4-1) after a 1-1 draw.
Italy fail to qualify for the 2026 World Cup for the third consecutive time.
Donnarumma cried after the defeat, saying he was overwhelmed by enormous sadness.

Historic Shock in Zenica

Bosnia and Herzegovina posted a stunning 4-1 penalty shootout victory over Italy after a 1-1 draw.

“- Published Gianluigi Donnarumma says he "cried because of the enormous sadness" of not being able to lead Italy to the 2026 World Cup this summer, following their penalty shootout defeat by Bosnia-Herzegovina”

BBC

Italy took an early lead but were reduced to 10 men after a red card.

BBC

Bosnia equalized in the 79th minute through Haris Tabaković.

After the final whistle, celebrations erupted across Bosnia while Italy faced deep disappointment.

Donnarumma at Center of Fire

Donnarumma became a lightning rod for anger among home supporters.

He was unable to save any of Bosnia's penalties in the shootout.

Bolavip US

He reportedly damaged Vasilj's penalty-takers cheat sheet during the shootout.

He posted an emotional Instagram statement saying he cried because of the enormous sadness.

Analysis and Reaction

Fabio Capello labeled the situation a sporting tragedy.

“The full 48-team line-up for this summer's FIFA World Cup was officially confirmed on Tuesday as the final six nations at the finals through play-off ties”