Liveblog: Italy vs. Israel, 2026 World Cup qualifier

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Join us for all the build-up and action as it happens from the 2026 World Cup qualifier, as Italy host Israel and try to lock down that play-off spot.

It kicks off at the Stadio Friuli in Udine at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT).

The Azzurri are in second place behind runaway leaders Norway and the chances of beating their goal difference, even if finishing level on points, are very slim.

So this becomes a key fixture to secure the play-offs, having squeezed past Israel 5-4 last month.

There will be a minute’s silence before kick-off following the death of three carabinieri police officers in Castel d’Azzano this morning, near Verona.

They were trying to aid a forced eviction when struck by an explosion, with 13 others injured, as the house was booby-trapped.