Introduction to the Match
With Italy struggling to keep pace with Group I leaders Norway, the Azzurri desperately need all three points from their clash with Israel on Monday night. The Italians have had a challenging start to their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign, highlighted by a 3-0 defeat to Norway in June. To change their fortunes, Italy must win their next five qualifying games, including the upcoming match against Israel.
Team Analysis
It’s been an encouraging start to the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign for Israel, who will play their home game against Italy on neutral soil in Hungary. The Israelis have six points from their first three games, with victories over Estonia in March and June, and a 4-2 loss to group leaders Norway in between. Israel is likely to start with Dor Turgeman and Manor Solomon in attack. On the other hand, Italy’s new boss, Gennaro Gattuso, has rung the changes in his squad, overlooking some players and introducing new ones like Liverpool’s Giovanni Leoni.
Probable Lineups and Strategies
The expected lineup for Israel includes Da. Peretz; Revivo, Dasa, Shlomo, Nachmias, Do. Peretz, E. Peretz, Gloukh, Biton, Solomon, and Turgeman. For Italy, the expected lineup is Donnarumma; Dimarco, Di Lorenzo, Bastoni, Gatti, Barella, Tonali, Locatelli, Politano, Kean, and Zaccagni. Given that the Italians won by three clear goals in their last meeting, it’s surprising that the betting markets give the Azzurri only a 48.78% chance of winning by a two-goal margin on Monday. Gattuso’s men are expected to benefit from the neutral location, as Israel has been playing their home fixtures in Hungary, which might not provide the usual home advantage.
Betting Predictions
Italy to Win with a Margin
Italy is expected to win the match, considering their past performances against Israel. The Azzurri should beat Israel 3-1, making the bet on Italy -1 (Handicap 3-way) at odds of 2.05 with Betway a sensible choice.
Both Teams to Score
Israel managed to find the back of the net in both of their Nations League group games last year, indicating their ability to score against Italy. With Gattuso reverting to a four-man defense and the new-look team in development, there might be gaps in the defense that Israel can exploit. Thus, betting on both teams to score (Yes) at odds of 2.00 with Betway seems like a reasonable option.
Over 3.5 Goals
Gennaro Gattuso is known for his attack-minded approach, which encourages the team to press hard from the front and make use of the wings. Given the average of four goals scored per game in the Nations League contests between the two teams and Gattuso’s desire to stamp his mark on the squad, betting on over 3.5 goals at odds of 2.87 with Betway could provide value.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Italy’s match against Israel is crucial for their World Cup qualifying campaign. With the right strategy and the introduction of new players, Italy is expected to secure a win. The predictions of Italy winning with a margin, both teams scoring, and over 3.5 goals being scored in the match are based on the teams’ past performances and current strategies. The neutral location of the match and Gattuso’s attack-minded approach add to the anticipation of an exciting and potentially high-scoring game.
