Since becoming its own nation, Moldova has never qualified for the World Cup, having not won a match during qualification since the lead-up to the 2014 tournament. Moldova has lost both of its first two matches of qualification this year, losing to Norway, 5-0, back in March, before losing a spirited 3-2 affair to Estonia.

With a parting gift for Luciano Spalletti, Italy beat Moldova 2-0 on Tuesday (June 10, 2025) for their first points in the beleaguered team’s attempt to reach the FIFA World Cup for the first time since 2014.