Mansion Sports – A high-stakes match is set to take place in Group I of the European Qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as Italy national football team face Israel national football team at Stadio Friuli (Bluenergy Stadium) in Udine on Tuesday, 14 October 2025, with kick-off scheduled for 20:45 local time.

This crucial fixture will test both teams’ ambitions to secure a place at the World Cup finals. Italy are currently in strong form, looking to claim three vital points to close the gap on Norway at the top of the standings. Meanwhile, Israel are fighting to keep their playoff hopes alive with a much-needed victory.

Team Conditions Ahead of the Match

Italy

The Azzurri approach this match full of confidence. After suffering a setback in their opening qualifier, Italy have bounced back with four consecutive wins. A victory against Israel would cut Norway’s lead to just three points.

This meeting follows their dramatic encounter last month, when Italy triumphed 5–4 in an action-packed contest. 

Gennaro Gattuso’s men were twice pegged back before Sandro Tonali sealed the win in the final minutes.

Since September, Italy’s attacking play has improved notably, thanks in part to the emergence of young talents like Francesco Pio Esposito, who recently scored his first senior international goal. 

The blend of youthful energy and experienced leadership has given Italy greater fluidity and unpredictability.

However, the pressure remains intense. Having failed to qualify for the last two World Cups, fans are demanding results rather than just promising performances. 

Head coach Gennaro Gattuso is fully aware of the significance of this fixture in sustaining their qualification momentum.

Israel

Israel arrive in Udine under pressure after a heavy 0–5 defeat to Norway, a result that severely dented their hopes. 

They currently sit three points behind Italy with an inferior goal difference and have played one match more.

Their historical record against Italy is also unfavorable. Out of eight meetings, Israel have avoided defeat only once — a goalless draw in 1970. 

This history underlines the scale of the challenge faced by head coach Ran Ben Shimon and his team.

Despite this, Israel are expected to adopt an aggressive approach in an attempt to disrupt Italy’s dominance, even though they face a squad with greater depth and quality.

Group I Standings Before the Match

Predicted Lineups for Italy vs Israel

Italy (4-4-2)

Italy will be without Moise Kean due to an ankle injury, while Alessandro Bastoni is suspended after accumulating yellow cards, with Gianluca Mancini expected to fill the gap. 

Injuries to Gianluca Scamacca, Matteo Politano, and Mattia Zaccagni may give Giacomo Raspadori and Riccardo Orsolini an opportunity to start.

Israel (4-2-3-1)

Israel will also be without Dor Peretz, who was crucial in their previous encounter. Head coach Ran Ben Shimon is expected to adjust his attack, possibly starting Tai Baribo or Dor Turgeman, while Manor Solomon and Oscar Gloukh will remain key creative outlets.

A Decisive Battle in the Race to the World Cup

The Italy vs Israel clash is not merely about three points. For Italy, it represents a chance to maintain pressure on Norway at the top of Group I, while for Israel, it is a fight to keep their World Cup hopes alive.

With Italy’s attacking unit in sharp form and Israel’s determination to spring a surprise, the match in Udine promises to be intense, dynamic, and potentially high-scoring. It is a classic showdown between a favorite and a determined challenger.