14.10.2025 20:01
In the World Cup Qualifiers, Italy will host Israel. Ahead of the match, the streets became chaotic, and security measures were increased.
Italy is preparing to host Israel as part of the World Cup Qualifiers. The match, which will start at 21:45, will be played in the city of Udinese. However, due to a pro-Palestinian demonstration scheduled in the city, the security level has been raised to the highest alert before the match.
PROTEST FROM FANS, EMPTY STANDS
Local security forces expect more than 10,000 demonstrators to participate in the march. This situation has directly affected the match atmosphere. It has been reported that only 9,000 tickets have been sold for the 25,000-capacity Blue Energy Stadium. Many fans have reportedly refrained from coming to the stadium due to the protests.
GATTUSO: WE RESPECT THE PROTESTERS
Italy's head coach Gennaro Gattuso expressed his satisfaction with the ceasefire and peace environment in Gaza in a statement made before the match. The experienced coach used the following words to lower the tension:
"We are happy about the ceasefire decision. It is very emotional to see people returning to their homes in Gaza. We respect the protesters outside the stadium, but we will go out and play our match with our fans in the stands. I hope peace lasts forever. There is nothing worse than what has happened in the last two years."
ITALY IN PURSUIT OF WORLD CUP TICKET
Having missed the last two World Cups, Italy does not want to make a mistake this time. Competing in Group I, the Blues are in second place with 12 points in a group led by Norway, who is undefeated. Their opponent Israel is in third place with 9 points. This match will be one of the most critical turns on Italy's path to the playoffs.