FIFA clears Brazil-born forward João Pedro to play for Italy

ZURICH (AP) — Brazil-born Cagliari forward João Pedro has been cleared to represent Italy, FIFA said Wednesday.

João Pedro needed FIFA permission to change national eligibility after playing for Brazil at Under-17 level.

He turns 30 two weeks before Italy’s next game in the World Cup qualifying playoffs on March 24. The European champion plays at home against North Macedonia. The winner advances to play at Portugal or Turkey five days later.

If selected, João Pedro could join Brazil-born teammates Jorginho, Emerson Palmieri and Rafael Tolói in the squad.

João Pedro already gained Italian citizenship while playing for Cagliari since 2014.

He has scored nine goals in 19 games this season for a team struggling in 19th place in Serie A.