Italy sack coach after World Cup qualification failure

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One team that won't be making their way to Russia for the World Cup is Italy following their 1-0 loss to Sweden in a two-game playoff. That lackluster effort forced the Italian Football Federation to sack coach Gian Piero Ventura as the Azzurri miss out on their first World Cup in almost 60 years.

The 69-year-old took the reins of the four-time World Champions last June when Antonio Conte left to take charge of Chelsea and just recently had his contract extended until 2020.

However, he was told failure to reach Russia could result in it being voided, which ultimately resulted in his dismissal.

An Italian player distraught after failing to make the 2018 World Cup /VCG Photo

Ventura, who has had coaching spells with Sampdoria, Udinese and Torino, was widely criticized for Monday night's display against the Swedes over his defensive approach, frustrating fans by leaving Napoli winger Lorenzo Insigne as a substitute.

The 26-year-old is considered to be Italy's most talented prospect at present and was either left on the bench or used as a central midfielder during Ventura's tenure.

Ex-Bayern Munich and Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti has been named as a possible successor with AC Milan boss Massimiliano Allegri also rumored.