Debrecen (Hungary), Sep 9 (AP) — In a breathtaking encounter, Italy secured an essential victory over Israel, winning 5-4 with a last-minute goal from Sandro Tonali. This result marks a significant step in Italy's quest for a spot in the 2026 World Cup, especially after their previous setback—a 3-0 defeat to Norway in June. Italy faced further challenges as Israel managed to take the lead twice during the lively match held on neutral ground in Hungary.
Moise Kean proved invaluable for Italy, finding gaps in the Israeli defense to score on both sides of halftime, each time balancing the scoreline. The tide turned in Italy's favor in the 59th minute when Matteo Politano put them ahead with a goal supplied by Mateo Retegui's clever backheeled assist. Giacomo Raspadori soon added a fourth, seemingly putting the game beyond reach.
Yet, the drama was far from over. Israel sensationally drew level with two quick goals, courtesy of Dor Peretz completing his brace. The decisive moment came in the first minute of stoppage time when Tonali's curling shot—initially appearing harmless—threaded through a cluster of players to claim the victory. Italy's performance was marred by errors, notably two own goals and some costly mistakes by their new goalkeeper, Gianluigi Donnarumma from Manchester City.
The match occurred amid political tensions, coming just weeks after the Italian Soccer Coaches' Association urged for Israel's suspension due to the conflict in Gaza. Moreover, there was an awkward atmosphere during the Israeli anthem, with some attendees reportedly reacting with disapproval. Adding to an already charged context, the Israeli team donned black armbands in memory of victims from a recent violent incident in Jerusalem, where six people lost their lives, and 12 others sustained injuries.
With this win, Italy surpasses Israel to claim second place in Europe Group I. Norway remains at the top with a flawless record of four wins in four matches, poised to play bottom-placed Moldova on Tuesday.
Sweden in Trouble
— Sweden's qualification campaign encountered further difficulties following a 2-0 defeat to Kosovo, leaving them with only one point after their initial two matches. Kosovo's goals were the outcome of rapid counterattacks launched from within their own penalty area.
Elsewhere, Switzerland maintained their lead in Group B with a convincing 3-0 victory over Slovenia, successfully converting two corners into goals through precision headers.
Denmark and Scotland Victorious
— In Group C, Denmark and Scotland are tied on points, each having four. Denmark achieved a commanding 3-0 triumph over Greece, while Scotland secured a 2-0 win against Belarus.
Croatia Cruises
— In Group L, Croatia effortlessly defeated Montenegro 4-0, taking advantage of Andrija Bulatovic's first-half expulsion for two yellow cards within a brief eight minutes. Croatia leads the group, albeit having played one less game than second-placed Czech Republic, while the Faroe Islands edged past Gibraltar with a 1-0 scoreline. (AP) AM