Italy must qualify for the World Cup through a play off after their draw in Northern Ireland saw Roberto Mancini's side forfeit top spot in Group C.
Former Manchester City boss Mancini called on his stars to 'play without anxiety' ahead of their trip to Belfast, but the European champions fired blank against Ian Baraclough's stoic side.
Their performance was duly punished as Switzerland's win against Bulgaria saw them snatch first place in the group and seal their spot at the Qatar World Cup, while Italy will be left reeling from a monumental fall from grace.