The play-off clash in Zenica ended 1-1 after extra time, before Bosnia triumphed 4-1 on penalties to book their place at the global tournament.
Italy made a bright start, taking the lead in the 15th minute. Nicolò Barella capitalised on a costly error by goalkeeper Nikola Vasilj and set up Moise Kean, who finished clinically to put the visitors ahead.
However, the momentum shifted before half-time. Defender Alessandro Bastoni was shown a straight red card in the 41st minute by referee Clément Turpin after bringing down Amar Memić as the last man, reducing Italy to ten players.
Bosnia dominated proceedings thereafter, with Ermedin Demirović, Kerim Alajbegović and veteran striker Edin Džeko all testing Italy’s resistance. Goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma produced a series of fine saves to keep his side in the contest.
The equaliser finally arrived in the 79th minute. Donnarumma parried a header from Džeko, but Haris Tabaković reacted quickest to convert the rebound from close range.
With no further goals in extra time, the match went to penalties. Bosnia held their nerve, converting all four of their spot-kicks. In contrast, Italy faltered — Francesco Pio Esposito fired over the bar, while Bryan Cristante struck the crossbar.
Ismir Bajraktarević sealed victory with the decisive penalty, sparking celebrations as Bosnia secured qualification.
