European champions Italy OUT of World Cup after shock loss to North Macedonia

North Macedonia stunned European Champions Italy in the dying minutes to set up a clash against Portugal in the World Cup qualifying finals. The four-time World Champions failed to qualify for the tournament in Russia after being knocked out by Sweden in the play-offs.

And Aleksandar Trajkovski ensured the Italians would be watching the 2022 World Cup from their homes after his fantastic finish in the 93rd minute. The Macedonia No.9 broke past the Italian defence to fire a wonderful effort past Gianluigi Donnarumma from 25 yards out.

The Italians had 31 shots on goal but could not find the back of the net. They will travel to face Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal in the final, who overcame Turkey after a late scare.

A shell-shocked Giorgio Chiellini expressed his "great disappointment" about the Azzurri's exit, but stated he wants Mancini to remain in his post. "There is great disappointment. We played a good game, we missed the goal," Chiellini said.. "I'm proud of my teammates. We are destroyed. I hope the future is still with Mr. Mancini."

While, Mancini was dressed in his usual suave and smooth style, the former Manchester City boss appeared non-plussed by the stunning result. “I’m more than disappointed, I’ve nothing to say," Mancini said after the match.

Something incredible happened tonight. We deserved to win the Euros, now we’ve been really unlucky… but that’s it, that’s the reality. I’m sorry for the players”

Meanwhile, Cristiano Ronaldo ’s Portugal were dealt a huge scare by Turkey. Porto winger Otavio latched onto a rebound to slot Fernando Santos’ side into a first-half lead.

The tie appeared to be over when Liverpool ace Diogo Jota sumptuously doubled their lead with a very powerful header. However,