Sandro Tonali Scores Injury-Time Winner as Italy Beat Israel

Italy secured a thrilling and dramatic victory over Israel in a World Cup qualifying match, thanks to Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali, who scored an injury-time winner. The match, held in Debrecen, Hungary, ended in a spectacular 5-4 scoreline that kept Italy’s hopes alive in Group I.

This victory was particularly important for Italy, who have faced a rocky start in this qualification campaign after failing to qualify for the last two World Cups.

Early Setbacks for Italy

Italy’s challenge began early in the match when Manuel Locatelli’s own goal in the 16th minute gave Israel the lead. This early setback put pressure on the Italian side, who have been desperate to avoid another disappointing qualification campaign.

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Israel’s confidence grew after taking the lead, showing that they were determined to make life difficult for Italy in this crucial Group I match.

Italy Fight Back Before Half-Time

Despite trailing, Italy managed to equalize just before half-time. Moise Kean, a former Everton striker, scored the first goal for Italy, leveling the score at 1-1. His goal boosted the Italian team’s morale, as they went into the break knowing they could still turn the game around.

However, the relief was short-lived. Only a few minutes into the second half, Israel regained the lead through Dor Peretz, making it 2-1. Italy was now in a challenging position, needing to score multiple goals to get back on top.

Italy Takes the Lead

Italy responded quickly to Israel’s second goal. Moise Kean scored again, giving Italy the equalizer for the second time. Kean’s performance was outstanding as he helped his team recover from a deficit.

Shortly after, Matteo Politano scored to put Italy ahead for the first time in the match. The score now read 3-2 in favor of Italy. This goal brought hope to Italian fans, as their team seemed to have finally found a rhythm in a match filled with twists and turns.

Italy Extend Their Lead

As the match progressed, Giacomo Raspadori scored the fourth goal for Italy in the 81st minute, making the score 4-2. At this point, Italy seemed to be in control and looked likely to secure three important points in the qualifying group.

However, the drama was far from over. The match continued to swing between the two sides, keeping fans on edge.

Israel’s Late Comeback

Israel was not ready to give up. In the 87th minute, Alessandro Bastoni scored an own goal, reducing Italy’s lead to 4-3. Just two minutes later, Dor Peretz scored his second goal, leveling the match at 4-4.

These late goals shocked the Italian team and fans, as it seemed like Italy might lose their hard-earned advantage. The match was now heading into injury time with both teams fighting for victory.

Tonali’s Injury-Time Heroics

The tension peaked in the 91st minute when Sandro Tonali stepped up to deliver a moment of magic. From around 20 yards out, Tonali curled a low shot through a crowded penalty area and into the bottom corner of the net.

This stunning goal gave Italy a 5-4 lead and secured a dramatic and crucial victory in the World Cup qualifiers. Tonali’s winner was not only a testament to his skill but also a crucial three points for Italy as they aim to qualify for the next World Cup.

Importance of the Victory

This win was vital for Italy, who have struggled in recent years in World Cup qualifying. They missed out on both the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, despite winning the European Championship in 2021 by defeating England on penalties at Wembley.

A loss against Israel would have put Italy in danger of another disappointing qualification campaign. By snatching victory in the final moments, Italy has kept its hopes alive, although the road to qualification remains challenging.

Remaining Fixtures for Italy

Italy’s path in Group I continues with several important matches. Their upcoming games include:

• 11 October: Italy play away against Estonia

• 14 October: Italy host Israel

• 13 November: Italy travel to Moldova

• 16 November: Potential group decider at home against Norway

Only the group winners are guaranteed a spot in the next World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States. The runners-up will have to go through the play-offs to secure their place in the tournament.

Italy’s Struggle in Recent World Cups

Italy’s struggle to qualify for recent World Cups has been a concern for fans and analysts alike. Missing out on Russia 2018 and Qatar 2022 raised questions about the team’s performance at crucial qualifying stages.

The European Championship victory in 2021 showed that Italy has the talent, but translating success from tournaments to qualifiers has proven difficult. Matches like the one against Israel highlight both the resilience and vulnerabilities of the Italian squad.

Key Players in the Match

Several players stood out during this thrilling match:

• Sandro Tonali: Scored the injury-time winner, becoming the hero of the match.

• Moise Kean: Scored twice to help Italy recover from deficits.

• Matteo Politano: Scored Italy’s first lead-taking goal.

• Giacomo Raspadori: Extended Italy’s lead with a crucial goal.

• Dor Peretz: Scored twice for Israel, keeping the match dramatic.

Italy also faced misfortune with two own goals by Manuel Locatelli and Alessandro Bastoni, showing that even top teams can have moments of confusion and pressure.

The Italy vs Israel match will be remembered as one of the most thrilling World Cup qualifiers in recent memory. With nine goals, multiple lead changes, and a last-minute winner, the match showcased the unpredictability and excitement of football.

For Italy, Tonali’s goal might be the turning point in their campaign, giving them hope that they can secure qualification and avoid another disappointment. Fans will be hoping that the team can maintain focus and consistency in their upcoming matches, as every point matters in the fight for a spot at the 2026 World Cup.