13th November, 2017
By Kazeem Ugbodaga
Italian goalkeeper, ageless Gigi Buffon has retired from international football after the Azurris of Italy failed to qualify for the 2018 World Cup in Russia, first time since 1958.
A determined Sweden took the place of the Italians after winning 1-0 aggregate in the two-legged play-off on Monday. The Swedish team won the first leg 1-0 and forced the Azurris to a goalless draw in the second leg.
Speaking after the Azurris lost, Buffon said he was sorry for himself and the Italian football, regetting that the team could not qualify for the World Cup.
“I’m not sorry for myself but all of Italian football. We failed at something which also means something on a social level. There’s regret at finishing like that, not because time passes.
“There is certainly a future for Italian football, as we have pride, ability, determination and after bad tumbles, we always find a way to get back on our feet,” he said.
Giving an impression that he has quit the national team, Buffon said, “I leave a squad of talent that will have their say, including Gigio Donnarumma and Mattia Perin. I want to give a hug to Chiello, Barza, Leo and Lele, who I had almost 10 years alongside.
“I thank the lads who were with us and, although it wasn’t enough, I hope that we gave them something.
“In football you win as a group, you lose as a group, you divide the credit and the blame. The coach is part of this entire group.”