Italy moved one step closer to the 2026 FIFA World Cup after beating Israel 3-0 in Udine, confirming a top-two finish in Group I and keeping their hopes of automatic qualification alive.
The hosts started strongly, creating early chances through Mateo Retegui and Andrea Cambiaso, but both missed narrowly. Israel looked dangerous on the counter, with Oscar Gloukh and Manor Solomon forcing saves from Gianluigi Donnarumma.
Italy eventually took the lead just before half-time. Retegui was fouled in the box and confidently scored the penalty, blasting it into the top corner.
After the break, Israel pushed for an equaliser and came close through Gloukh again, but Donnarumma made a key save. Moments later, Retegui made it 2-0 with a brilliant curling shot after winning possession high up the pitch.
Gianluca Mancini sealed the win deep into stoppage time, finishing off a move started by Federico Dimarco.
Italy remain three points behind Norway in the group, although their goal difference is much lower. With two games left to play, they’re still in the running for a spot at the World Cup finals, a tournament they’ve missed in the last two editions.
Israel’s defeat means they can no longer qualify.
