Italy’s crucial clash with Israel: Gattuso keeps Kean, Retegui, two changes | OneFootball

After the 5-0 victory over Estonia, the Azzurri are aiming for second place in Group I of the World Cup qualifiers. Kick-off at 20.45 in Debrecen.

Italy, decisive challenge with Israel: Gattuso confirms Kean and Retegui. Two changes for the maturity exam

Rino Gattuso's Italy is facing a crucial test: only a victory against Israel is needed to relaunch the race towards the 2026 World Cup. After the successful debut against Estonia, the Azzurri are looking for confirmation against a more competitive opponent, currently second in the group with 9 points. Gattuso's men are third with 6 points, but a victory would tie them with the Israelis, thus opening a direct duel with Norway (leaders with 12).

Italy lineup: Mancini and Locatelli are the new faces, Zaccagni out

"We need solidity and clarity," Gattuso declared on the eve. For this reason, the CT will make two changes compared to the 5-0 against Estonia. In defense, Mancini will replace Calafiori, while Manuel Locatelli will be in the control room.

The double striker Kean-Retegui is confirmed, already effective in the previous outing. Zaccagni, dealing with a muscle discomfort, will not even be on the bench.

Probable Italy lineup (3-5-2 variable in 4-3-3):

Donnarumma; Di Lorenzo, Mancini, Bastoni; Politano, Barella, Locatelli, Tonali, Dimarco; Kean, Retegui.

Israel-Italy: a crossroads not to be missed

Historically, the Azzurri have never lost against Israel: six victories and a draw in the past, including the two recent wins in the Nations League (2-1 and 4-1 with Spalletti on the bench).

This time, however, the stakes are very high: second place would mean access to the play-offs, while a failure to win would complicate the journey to the World Cup.

The tactical key: balance and incisiveness

The Azzurri eleven will start from a 3-5-2 which, in the offensive phase, will become a 4-3-3 thanks to the push of Dimarco and the hybrid position of Politano, called to guarantee coverage in midfield and offensive support. "We need to be compact but at the same time dangerous, scoring more is also necessary for the goal difference," Gattuso emphasized.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇮🇹 here.