Italy’s 2026 World Cup qualifier against Israel took place amid significant protests, with approximately 10,000 demonstrators, predominantly pro-Palestinian, marching through Udine. The demonstrations followed a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas but did not lessen the participants’ resolve. Clashes erupted between a small faction of protesters and police, who were heavily deployed, including more than 1,000 officers and military personnel, with aerial surveillance in place. Checkpoints surrounding the Bluenergy Stadium enhanced security, preventing protesters from reaching the venue where Italy secured a 3-0 victory. There is notable discontent in Italy regarding the Italian Football Federation’s decision not to contemplate a boycott of matches against Israel. During the match, a portion of fans expressed disapproval of the Israeli national anthem, and Italy’s goals, including two by Mateo Retegui and one by Gianluca Mancini, contributed to the team’s pursuit of qualifying for the World Cup. Italy trails Norway in the Group I standings, with only the top position guaranteeing automatic qualification for the upcoming finals in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
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