© AP
European champions Italians did not earn a straight ticket to the World Cup. In their group, the Italian national team finished in second place, behind Switzerland. In the match Italy 0:0 Northern Ireland, which failed to pass through the defense of both competeing teams including Lithuania. Despite controlling the ball during the match, Italians were unable to create serious chances. In the other match, Switzerland defeated Bulgaria 4:0 at home, securing the first place in Group C and qualifying for the World Cup. Other results: Austria 4:1 Moldova Israel 3:2 Faroe Islands Scotland 2:0 Denmark
