Italy’s resurgence after their disappointing Euro 2024 campaign took another step forward with a 2-1 victory over Israel in Budapest on Monday.
This win places the Azzurri firmly at the top of Group A2 in the UEFA Nations League with six points from two matches.
Goals from Davide Frattesi and Moise Kean sealed the win for Italy, as they continue to build momentum following their 3-1 triumph over France just days earlier.
Played at Hungary’s Bozsik Arena due to security concerns in Israel, the game saw Italy take charge with disciplined defense and clinical finishing.
Despite Israel’s late fightback, including a goal from Mohamed Abu Fani in the final minute, Luciano Spalletti’s side held on to secure the win and keep their Nations League campaign on track.
Azzurri’s Strong Start to Nations League
Italy has shown great resilience and tactical improvement under coach Luciano Spalletti, especially after their early exit from Euro 2024.
The victory against Israel marks their second consecutive win in the Nations League, following their impressive win against France.
Davide Frattesi opened the scoring for Italy in the 38th minute after expertly chesting down a cross from Federico Dimarco and firing the ball into the net.
This marked his sixth international goal since Spalletti took over the reins from Roberto Mancini a year ago, further solidifying his growing role in the Italian midfield.
Moise Kean doubled Italy’s lead in the 62nd minute, scoring his first goal for the national team in three years. His finish came as a much-needed confidence boost, especially after a long period of struggles for the Fiorentina striker.
Despite a late push from Israel, including Abu Fani’s 90th-minute strike, Italy’s defense stood firm, ensuring that the three points belonged to them. With six points from two matches, Italy now leads Group A2 ahead of France and Belgium, who both have three points.
Frattesi’s Influence in Midfield
Davide Frattesi’s rise in Italian football has been one of the most exciting developments under Spalletti’s tenure. The Sassuolo midfielder has become a central figure in Italy’s midfield, known for his energy, vision, and ability to arrive late into the box to score crucial goals.
Frattesi’s ability to impact games from midfield has been vital for Italy’s recent success, and his goal against Israel was no exception.
Frattesi’s sixth international goal came at a critical moment, as Italy looked to break the deadlock in a match where both teams were cautious in the opening exchanges.
His ability to read the game and make decisive runs into the box has added a new dimension to Italy’s attack, providing Spalletti with a reliable goal threat from deeper areas of the pitch.
His partnership with players like Marco Verratti and Nicolò Barella in the midfield has allowed Italy to control games with ease, and his contributions in both attack and defense have made him indispensable to the Azzurri.
Moise Kean’s Return to Form
Moise Kean’s goal against Israel was a significant milestone in his international career. Having gone nearly three years without scoring for the national team, Kean’s strike in the 62nd minute not only doubled Italy’s lead but also marked his long-awaited return to form for the Azzurri.
Kean’s goal came after a period of uncertainty in his club career, but under Spalletti, he appears to have regained his confidence.
His movement off the ball, positioning, and finishing were on display as he calmly slotted the ball past Israel’s goalkeeper. This goal will undoubtedly boost his morale, as he looks to re-establish himself as a key figure in Italy’s attack.
With Italy’s next Nations League matches on the horizon, Kean’s return to the scoresheet adds another dimension to Spalletti’s attacking options. Alongside players like Ciro Immobile and Federico Chiesa, Kean’s form will be crucial as Italy aims to progress further in the tournament.
Israel’s Late Fightback
Despite the loss, Israel showed resilience in the latter stages of the match. Sagiv Jehezkel came close to leveling the score early in the second half when he narrowly missed converting Dor Peretz’s scuffed shot.
However, it was Mohamed Abu Fani who pulled a goal back for Israel in the final minute, giving them hope of a dramatic comeback.
Israel struggled to break down Italy’s disciplined defense for most of the match, and their inability to convert key chances ultimately cost them. Nevertheless, Abu Fani’s late strike showcased their never-say-die attitude, even in the face of strong opposition.
For Israel, the focus will now shift to improving their performance in the next Nations League fixtures, as they look to climb out of the bottom of the group.
Spalletti’s Tactical Masterclass
Luciano Spalletti’s tactical acumen has been evident in Italy’s recent performances. The Italian coach, known for his ability to organize teams defensively while maintaining a potent attack, has instilled a new sense of belief and discipline in his players since taking over from Roberto Mancini.
Against Israel, Spalletti set up his team to control the midfield, with Frattesi, Verratti, and Barella dictating the tempo of the game. Italy’s defense, led by captain Leonardo Bonucci, held firm, allowing Israel few clear-cut chances throughout the match.
Spalletti’s decision to start Moise Kean paid dividends as the striker ended his goal drought, and his substitutions ensured Italy remained solid in the closing stages of the game.
Spalletti’s leadership has been instrumental in Italy’s recent resurgence, and under his guidance, the Azzurri are well-positioned to make a strong run in the Nations League.
What’s Next for Italy in the Nations League?
With two wins from two games, Italy sits comfortably at the top of Group A2. Their next challenge will come in October when they face Belgium in a crucial match in Rome.
Belgium, who suffered a 2-0 loss to France in their last outing, will be eager to bounce back, but Italy’s recent form makes them the team to beat.
France, also on three points, will face Israel in Budapest. The outcome of these matches could determine which teams advance from the group, making October’s fixtures pivotal for all teams involved.
For Italy, maintaining their momentum and continuing to build on their recent performances will be key. With players like Frattesi and Kean in form, and Spalletti’s tactical nous guiding them, Italy looks poised to continue their march towards Nations League glory.
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