Italy, under the guidance of coach Luciano Spalletti, look to solidify their position atop their Nations League group as they host Israel at the Bluenergy Stadium in Udine. The Azzurri have accumulated seven points from three matches, including a recent 2-2 draw against Belgium in Rome where they dominated for 40 minutes before conceding two goals.
The Italian side previously defeated Israel 2-1 in a neutral venue in Budapest this September. Now, they face an Israeli team eager to redeem themselves after a 4-1 loss to France in their last outing. Italy must defend their slim one-point lead over France, which they gained through a victory in Paris on the opening day.
Spalletti faces a mandatory lineup adjustment following Pellegrini’s suspension. Raspadori is expected to join Retegui in attack, while Maldini may earn his first cap for Italy. The Azzurri continue to miss several important players due to injuries, including Chiesa, Barella, and Scamacca.
For Israel, the absence of captain Dasa and young talent Turgeman persists. Solomon’s unavailability further weakens their options, with Gloukh and Gandelman likely to support Baribo as the sole striker.
Italy (3-5-2): Vicario; Di Lorenzo, Buongiorno, Calafiori; Bellanova, Frattesi, Ricci, Tonali, Dimarco; Retegui, Raspadori
Israel (3-4-2-1): Glazer; Feingold, Nachmias, Baltaxa; Khalaili, Abu Fani, Kanikovski, Haziza; Gloukh, Peretz; Madmon
