Italy’s hope of playing at the 2026 FIFA World Cup booms as the team secured a 3-0 win against Israel to secure a playoff berth for next year’s big game.
Mateo Retegui shone in the game as he scored two goals for the night before Gianluca Mancini sealed the win with a third goal.
Israel put early pressure, but it was not enough to stop Italy from netting a goal before the end of the first half. Retegui scored the first goal through a penalty he had won. Gianluigi Donnarumma also made a strong save for his side to deny Manor Solomon from securing a goal.
Israel continued to mount pressure and neared equalising through Oscar Gloukh, but Donnarumma disrupted the chance. Retegui doubled the lead in the 74th minute, fitting into the top corner after regaining balance.
A header from Mancini at stoppage time sealed Italy’s victory. The win put Italy at 15 points, coming behind Norway, which tops the group with 18 points, and with two matches to go.
Italy will now play against Moldova and then the group leaders, Norway, in what may likely decide which team qualifies for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
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