Italy climb into second place of 2026 World Cup qualifying group | OneFootball

Italy have climbed above Israel into second place of their 2026 World Cup qualifying group, making it increasingly likely it will be decided in the head-to-head on November 16.

The Azzurri started their qualifying campaign later, as they participated in the Nations League quarter-finals.

Norway therefore surged out in front and have won all four of their games so far, including a 3-0 against Italy in Oslo on June 6.

Italy hope to keep pressure on Norway

BELGRADE, SERBIA – JUNE 02: Erling Haaland of Norway celebrates after victory in the UEFA Nations League League B Group 4 match between Serbia and Norway at Stadion Rajko Mitić on June 02, 2022 in Belgrade, Serbia. (Photo by Srdjan Stevanovic/Getty Images)

The Nazionale responded by winning three in a row, 2-0 against Moldova, 5-0 with Estonia, and a chaotic 5-4 over Israel this evening.

That allowed them to catch Israel on nine points, but with a game in hand, and a superior goal difference.

Italy are back in action on October 11 with a trip to Estonia, then host Israel on October 14.

The group could well be ultimately decided when Gennaro Gattuso’s men face Moldova on November 13 and end with a head-to-head against Norway on November 16.

Matteo Politano celebrates scoring for Italy against Israel (@azzurri)

If the Nazionale win every game, as do Norway, then they’ll both be on the same points and first place will be decided on goal difference.

Only first place goes directly to the 2026 World Cup, as the runners-up must go through play-offs.