Overview
- Italy face Israel in Debrecen in a match designated as Israel’s home fixture after the venue was moved for safety reasons.
- A win would lift Italy from third to second in Group I, where they trail Israel 9–6 on points and leaders Norway on 12.
- Gattuso is expected to move from a 4-2-3-1 to a 4-3-3, prioritizing control in transition against an opponent set up to counter.
- Daniel Maldini has been called into the squad in place of Mattia Zaccagni, who is not in the matchday group, with Carnesecchi, Leoni and Fabbian also omitted; Gianluca Scamacca remains out with a knee issue.
- Israel arrive on a 4-0 win in Moldova and a strong recent run, with Ran Ben Shimon’s side leaning on a compact shape and quick breaks.