Italy have won three and lost one of their four World Cup qualifiers so far.
Italy survived a nine-goal thriller to edge past Israel in a breathtaking World Cup qualifying clash. Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali emerged as the hero, scoring a stoppage-time winner that kept Italy’s qualification hopes alive.
A Rollercoaster Contest
The match in Debrecen, Hungary, had everything—goals, drama, and heartbreak. Israel struck first when Manuel Locatelli scored an own goal in the 16th minute. Italy responded before the break through Moise Kean, who calmly leveled the score.
After halftime, Dor Peretz restored Israel’s lead, only for Kean to answer again just two minutes later. Italy then took charge as Matteo Politano made it 3-2. Giacomo Raspadori added a fourth in the 81st minute, giving Italy what seemed like an unshakable 4-2 advantage.
Israel’s Stunning Late Comeback
The game took another twist in the closing minutes. Alessandro Bastoni turned the ball into his own net in the 87th minute, gifting Israel a lifeline. Soon after, Peretz struck again in the 89th, sending Israeli fans into raptures as the scoreline leveled at 4-4.
It looked like Italy would drop two crucial points. But Sandro Tonali had other plans. In the 91st minute, he found space 20 yards out and unleashed a low strike. The ball zipped through a crowded penalty area before nestling into the bottom corner. Italy snatched victory with seconds to spare.
Italy’s Fragile World Cup Dream
This dramatic win could prove vital for Italy, who are under immense pressure. The Azzurri have already missed two successive World Cups—2018 in Russia and 2022 in Qatar. Despite winning Euro 2020 at Wembley against England, their absence from football’s biggest stage has been a stain on their legacy.
They began this qualifying campaign poorly with a 3-0 defeat to Norway. The Norwegians now sit top of Group I, boasting four wins from four matches. Only the group winners automatically qualify for the 2026 World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States. Runners-up must fight through the play-offs.
Tonali’s Redemption and Italy’s Relief
For Tonali, whose club career at Newcastle has been overshadowed by off-field struggles, the goal was a moment of redemption. For Italy, it was more than three points—it was proof of resilience. A collapse against Israel would have left their qualification chances hanging by a thread.
Head coach Luciano Spalletti will still be concerned about his team’s defensive lapses. Two own goals and poor marking nearly cost them dearly. Yet, the attacking intent shown by Kean, Politano, Raspadori, and Tonali underlined Italy’s ability to score when it matters most.
The Road Ahead for Italy
Italy’s path remains challenging. They face Estonia away on October 11, host Israel again on October 14, and travel to Moldova on November 13. Their final group match against Norway on November 16 could decide their fate.
With only one direct qualification spot, every point is critical. Matches like this remind Italy of both their strengths and vulnerabilities. If Tonali’s last-minute magic can inspire consistency, the Azzurri may yet avoid the heartbreak of missing another World Cup.
