Italy Faces Israel in FIFA World Cup Qualifier: Gennaro Gattuso Insists on Steadfast Performance as Israel Prepares to Challenge Italy
Italy's New Boss Gattuso Aims to Revitalise National Team
Gennaro Gattuso, the new manager of the Italian national team, has set his sights on giving enthusiasm back to the Azzurri. Following a 5-0 victory over Estonia in his first match as boss, Gattuso is now focusing on the upcoming challenge against Israel.
Italy currently sits third in Group I of the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers, six points behind group leaders Norway. Israel, on the other hand, is one place and three points ahead of the Italians, making the match a crucial one for Gattuso's team.
Gattuso's strategy for the match against Israel will be different from the one against Estonia. The Italian boss plans to use two center-forwards, but maintaining balance and consistency in performances is crucial. Mateo Retegui and Giacomo Raspadori stood out in the win against Estonia, and Gattuso expects them to work hard to connect and provide depth to the team.
Israel typically adopts a five at the back formation, and Gattuso's team needs to be wary of their quick transitions due to their pep, pace, and quality. The manager emphasises the importance of controlling the match in Israel's own half, a tactic that could potentially swing the game in Italy's favour.
Gattuso is hopeful of qualifying for the World Cup for the first time since 2014, and his focus is on maintaining consistency in performances until the next summer. The national team playing against Italy on Monday in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers is Israel.
Italy does not face Norway until the November international break, but Gattuso acknowledges the difficulties his team will face against Israel. However, with the right approach and a consistent performance, the Azzurri could secure a valuable three points and move closer to qualifying for the World Cup.
