In a news conference on Tuesday (07/10), the coach of the Italian team, Gennaro Gattuso, expressed regret for conflicts in Gaza, but said that the Italy will not stop playing the match against Israelscheduled for the 14th, by the European World Cup qualifiers of 2026. The statement was a response to pro-Palestinian movements in the country, which ask the national team to confront.
– I would like to live the preparation for such an important game in another climate. In Bergamo there was a lot of excitement, but in an udine the environment will be heavy. We will have about 5,000 people inside the stadium and another 10,000 outside. I understand this because my heart breaks to see so many innocent victims, especially children. Still, we have a duty to do. We cannot lose by omission – said Gattuso.
Political pressure and protests in Italy
Italy faces Estonia on Saturday (11/10), also by the qualifiers, but the greatest attention is focused on the duel against Israel. In recent weeks, the country has been the scene of intense demonstrations of pro-Palestinian groups contrary to the actions of the Israeli government in the Gaza Strip.
The conflict in the Middle East, which has left more than 67,000 dead, turns two on Tuesday amid growing political and sports pressure on Israel. UEFA even considered the exclusion of the country from its competitions, but retreated after former US President Donald Trump propose a peace plan for the region.
Italy reinforces security for the game in udine
With two victories in the qualifiers under the command of Gattuso, Italy occupies the vice-leadership of Group I, totaling nine points. The Italian government has announced reinforcement in the security scheme for the game against Israel, which will be held at the Friuli Stadium in Udine.
“I hope the players will be able to keep their focus and not be shaken by the pressure.” We need to think about the sports goal – concluded the coach.
Azzurra faces Estonia on Saturday at 3:45 pm (from Brasília) in Tallin. The duel against Israel takes place the following Tuesday at the same time.
First training in Coverciano 🏃iod#National #Azzurri #Vivoazzurro pic.twitter.com/GtxDZqw5AB
– Italian national team ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (@Azzurri) October 7, 2025
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