Italy Faces Israel in 2026 World Cup Qualifier with Heavy Pressure
Italy is facing immense pressure as it prepares for the 2026 World Cup Qualifier against Israel. The national team, a four-time World Cup champion, has not qualified for the last two tournaments, a worrying trend for its passionate fanbase.
Historical Context of Italy’s World Cup Participation
Italy’s absence from the 2018 World Cup in Russia and the 2022 World Cup in Qatar marks a significant low in its football history. Traditionally, the Azzurri have participated in 18 World Cups from 1934 to 2014. The last time Italy played in a World Cup match was on June 24, 2014, suffering a defeat against Uruguay in the group stage.
Italy’s most recent success in the tournament came on July 9, 2006, when they defeated France in the finals in Berlin. Since then, the team has experienced two early exits from tournaments and two failed qualifications, raising concerns about its ability to secure a spot in future competitions.
Current Status of Team Italy
The Azzurri currently trail behind Norway in Group I, with six points separating them from the group leader, who has had an impressive record of six wins, 29 goals scored, and only three conceded. Italy’s recent performances have shown some promise under new head coach Gennaro Gattuso, who replaced Luciano Spalletti following disappointing results.
Recent Matches and Future Fixtures
- Upcoming Match: Italy vs. Israel on Tuesday at 20:45 in Udine. A win is crucial for playoff hopes.
- Next Key Fixture: Italy will face Norway on November 16 at San Siro. This match is critical for the standings.
Italy has experienced a resurgence since Gattuso’s appointment, with three consecutive victories and a total of 13 goals scored. Players like Moise Kean and Mateo Retegui have shown significant improvement, boosting the team’s morale.
The Pressure for Qualification
The possibility of missing another World Cup could have dire consequences for Italy’s football culture. Economic implications from sponsorship losses and public perception could lead to a major overhaul in the football federation. The last two World Cup absences already cost Italy around €31.9 million in 2018 and a staggering €41.1 million in 2022.
With contracts for sponsors up for renegotiation in 2026, the urgency to qualify is louder than ever. The team is fully aware of the stakes; defender Gianluca Mancini has emphasized the need to treat each upcoming match as a final.
Gattuso’s Approach and Team Spirit
Gattuso is working to instill confidence and resilience in the squad. He believes in the potential of the players and that they must focus on performances without undue pressure. Many players, including Sandro Tonali, have expressed a renewed sense of enthusiasm and commitment under Gattuso’s guidance.
As the Azzurri prepare for this crucial match against Israel, hopes for a return to the World Cup hinge on solid performances. All eyes will be on Udine as Italy aims to secure a crucial victory and take a step towards qualification for the 2026 World Cup.
