Italy's Play-Off Preparations: Bastoni's Light Return, Politano's New Concern

Inter defender Alessandro Bastoni was observed engaging in light running today following an ankle injury, casting significant doubt on his participation in Italy’s crucial World Cup play-off campaign. Adding to the squad's concerns, Matteo Politano is also grappling with a new fitness issue.

The Nazionale convened at their Coverciano training camp this morning to commence preparations for the semi-final clash against Northern Ireland, scheduled for Thursday evening in Bergamo. Should they triumph in this fixture, the Azzurri will then face either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina in the play-off final on March 31, vying for a coveted spot at the 2026 World Cup.

Gattuso Navigates Injury Woes

Coach Gennaro Gattuso has been contending with a number of injury challenges. Notably, Federico Chiesa was sent back to Liverpool, prompting the call-up of Bologna's Nicolò Cambiaghi as a replacement. Bastoni, who missed Inter’s recent Serie A match against Fiorentina due to a left ankle problem, remains a question mark for the Northern Ireland game. However, there was a glimmer of positive news today as Bastoni was seen running on the pitch. While not participating in the full team training, he continued his individual recovery program. When asked about his condition, Bastoni reportedly conveyed, "I can handle it."

In contrast, the situation for Napoli winger Matteo Politano appears less optimistic. He was observed on the sidelines with a noticeable bandage on his left shin, indicating a fresh injury concern.

During the training session, Gattuso organized a five-a-side match featuring Marco Palestra, Mateo Retegui, Alessandro Buongiorno, Andrea Cambiaso, and Manuel Locatelli on one team, against Leonardo Spinazzola, Davide Frattesi, Cambiaghi, and Federico Gatti on the other. The three goalkeepers rotated throughout the game. Players like Gianluca Mancini, Sandro Tonali, Riccardo Calafiori, and Gianluca Scamacca did not partake in training due to ongoing fitness issues.