Overview

• Italy will clinch at least second place in Group I and a World Cup play-off spot with a win over Israel in Udine.
• Authorities expect a large pro-Palestinian march in the city and have deployed about 1,000 police with helicopters and drones, while over 9,000 match tickets have been sold.
• Coach Gennaro Gattuso welcomed the Gaza ceasefire, voiced respect for protesters, and urged discipline after last month’s 5-4 meeting, warning Israel will play on the front foot.
• Squad updates include Moise Kean ruled out with an ankle injury and Alessandro Bastoni suspended, with tactical tweaks under consideration and youngster Francesco Pio Esposito in the frame.
• Israel coach Ben Shimon acknowledged the emotional backdrop of the ceasefire and hostage releases but pressed his players to focus solely on the game.