Overview

• Italy seeks to cement second place in Group I to stay on course for the playoffs, with Norway well ahead on points and goal difference.
• Around 10,000 pro-Palestinian protesters are expected in Udine, with roughly 1,000 police deployed for what officials describe as heightened risk.
• The venue was chosen for its distance from major cities after large demonstrations this month, and Udine’s mayor had pushed to move the match.
• Gennaro Gattuso says a win could put Israel out of the playoff picture and help Italy focus preparations for the postseason path.
• The coach also cautions about Israel’s attack after September’s 5-4 meeting, while Moise Kean remains a doubt following an ankle knock against Estonia.