Italy’s World Cup qualifying campaign hit fever pitch on Monday night as manager Gennaro Gattuso’s side pulled off a dramatic late victory over Israel. The 2006 World Cup champions remain in a tense battle to reach next summer’s tournament in North America, with only group winners earning automatic qualification.
High Stakes Heading Into the Match
After a disappointing loss to Norway earlier in the qualifiers, Italy sits second in their group.
That makes every remaining game critical, especially the return clash against Norway on matchday eight, which could determine whether they secure a spot in the finals or even a play-off chance.
Monday’s showdown against Israel almost ended in disaster, with Italy needing a late goal to claim all three points in a pulsating nine-goal thriller.
A defeat would have left Israel above them in the standings, putting Italy’s qualification hopes in jeopardy—at least temporarily, they managed to hold on.
A Nine-Goal Rollercoaster
The match was a spectacle from the start. At halftime, the score was locked at 1-1 after Moise Kean cancelled out an own goal from Manuel Locatelli.
The second half then exploded with goals: Dor Peretz gave Israel the lead with his first of the night, Kean replied with a second to level, and Matteo Politano finally put Italy ahead.
Giacomo Raspadori extended the lead to 4-2 with just nine minutes left.
Even with a seeming advantage, the game was far from secure.
Peretz scored again and an own goal from Alessandro Bastoni made it 4-4.
But Sandro Tonali emerged as the hero, scoring in the 91st minute to snatch a dramatic victory and send the Italian away fans into jubilation.
Donnarumma’s Rollercoaster Night
Italy goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma had a difficult outing.
The Manchester City newcomer made four saves but still conceded four goals, and even inadvertently punched a corner into his own net early on, though the referee spared him the embarrassment.
Despite the shaky performance, Donnarumma leaves with a win and is set to make his debut for City against Manchester United following his £26million move from PSG.
Heated Confrontation at Full-Time
The end of the match wasn’t just dramatic on the scoreboard.
Israel forward Dor Turgeman confronted Gattuso on the pitch, leading to a tense moment that required Arsenal’s Riccardo Calafiori to step in and separate the manager.
Afterwards, Gattuso described the chaos of the match to Sky Sport Italia: “It was murder today.
It’s the craziest game I’ve been involved with as a coach, but it is my problem and not that of the players.”
Gattuso’s Tactical Reflections
The Italian boss acknowledged his team’s fragility and defensive issues.
“We were crazy to systematically go on the attack, that’s what Israel were waiting for, they hit us on the counter every time.
We could’ve defended deeper when leading,” he said.
He emphasized that his squad needs to focus on building their own style and solidity.
Praise for Tonali and Squad Efforts
Gattuso also lauded match-winner Sandro Tonali and the squad for their resilience.
Sandro is technically far better than I was.
Perhaps I am a tad better tactically, but he is still learning.
Locatelli, Barella, all those who are in the squad are helping and learning. I can only thank them for their efforts,” he added.
Eyes on the Remaining Fixtures
Italy now turns its attention to upcoming matches against Estonia, Israel, Moldova, and Norway in their reverse fixtures.
With qualification set to conclude in mid-November, every point will be crucial as Gattuso’s side fights to secure a spot at the World Cup.