Dramatic Finish: Italy Stuns Israel with a Series of Nine Stunning Goals in an Unforgettable Encounter

Italy and Israel Battle in World Cup Qualifier

In a thrilling World Cup qualifier, Italy and Israel went head-to-head in a high-stakes match. The stakes were particularly high for Italy, who were aiming to secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup and avoid a potential playoff.

The match started off on a rocky note for Italy, as Manuel Locatelli scored an own goal in the 16th minute, putting Israel ahead 2-0. However, Italy's Nazionale responded with determination, with attempts from Retegui and Dimarco. Locatelli almost made up for his mistake with a volley in the 31st minute, but it hit the bar.

Italy equalized the score in the 40th minute, with Kean scoring after a pass from Barella, thanks to a setup from Retegui. The equalizer seemed to energize Italy, as they continued to press forward. In the 52nd minute, Israel regained the lead with a magnificent shot from Solomon.

However, Italy refused to give up. In the 54th minute, Italy equalized again, thanks to an unintentional assist from Retegui to Kean. The game continued to be a back-and-forth affair, with both teams creating chances. Raspadori put the Italians ahead in the 83rd minute, only for Bastoni to score an own goal for Italy in the 87th minute, tying the game once more.

In the final moments of the match, Peretz equalized from a free kick for Israel in the 89th minute, setting the stage for extra time. In the 90+1st minute, Tonali probably intended to cross the ball, but no one touched it, not even the Israeli goalkeeper.

The match continued into extra time, with both teams fighting for the win. In the 58th minute of extra time, Matteo Politano scored the goal for Italy, giving them a 3-2 lead. Referee Vincic saved Donnarumma by signaling a slight foul by Lemkin in the 100th minute, preserving Italy's lead.

In the end, Italy secured a 5-4 victory over Israel, reclaiming the second spot in their World Cup group. A playoff could be a distant dream for Italy if they fail to catch up with Norway, who remain unbeaten in the same group. Italy will need to regain their composure and continue to play with determination if they hope to secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup.

Dramatic Finish: Italy Stuns Israel with a Series of Nine Stunning Goals in an Unforgettable Encounter