Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali suffered a thigh injury during the Champions League match against Barcelona, leaving the field in the 67th minute of Wednesday's 6-2 defeat. The incident occurred as Tonali tracked back to defend against Fermín López, immediately raising concerns about his availability for Italy's crucial World Cup qualifying playoff.

Tonali has been a key figure for Italy, expected to start as the four-time World Cup champions aim to end their absence from the tournament since 2014. The injury comes at a particularly inopportune moment, with Italy set to face Northern Ireland on March 26 in Bergamo. A victory would send them to face either Wales or Bosnia-Herzegovina in the playoff final.

The timing couldn't be worse for both Newcastle and the Italian national team. While Barcelona's 6-2 victory all but secured their quarterfinal berth, the focus has shifted to Tonali's fitness. Italy's coaching staff will be anxiously monitoring his recovery, knowing that their World Cup dreams could hinge on whether their midfield anchor can return to full fitness in the coming days.