TURIN, Italy, Oct 7 (Reuters) Italy's hopes of qualifying directly for next year's World Cup were dashed as they produced another uninspired performance and were held to a 1-1 draw at home by Macedonia in their qualifier on Friday.
The result, coupled with Spain's 3-0 win over Albania, ensured that Italy will finish second in Group G, almost certainly guaranteeing them a place in a two-leg playoff for a place in Russia next year.