This Monday, June 9, Italy will face Moldova at the Stadio Artemio Franchi in Florence in Matchday 4 of Group I in the UEFA Qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. More than just a must-win game, this will mark the final match for Luciano Spalletti as Italy’s head coach.

Date and U.S. Kick-off Times

• Date: Monday, June 9, 2025
• Venue: Stadio Artemio Franchi, Florence

U.S. Broadcast Times:

• Eastern (ET): 2:45 p.m.
• Central (CT): 1:45 p.m.
• Pacific (PT): 11:45 a.m.

What’s at Stake?

Italy:
The Italian Football Federation has confirmed that Luciano Spalletti will step down after this game, regardless of the result. Following a disappointing Euro campaign and a rough start to qualifiers, Italy needs a victory to stay within reach of a direct World Cup berth.

Moldova:
Still without a point in the group, Moldova will be looking to shock the football world and pile more pressure on an emotionally and tactically shaken Italian side.

End of the Spalletti Era

Spalletti’s reign has been marked by inconsistency, and this farewell comes at a moment of crisis. Italy must take all three points to stay in contention and avoid the playoffs—especially with the haunting possibility of missing a third straight World Cup looming over them.

Match Notes

• Historical dominance: Italy has never lost to Moldova, with their last meeting ending in a 6-0 rout.
• A tense goodbye: Spalletti’s final match could either end in redemption or serve as the final blow to a troubled tenure.
• Mental game: With the weight of history on their backs, the Azzurri will need to show resilience to avoid slipping further in the race to 2026.