Italy ´can´t afford to make mistakes´, admits Gattuso ahead of Israel clash

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Gennaro Gattuso has claimed that his Italy side “can’t afford to make mistakes” ahead of their must-win clash with Israel on Tuesday.

The Azzurri currently sit second in their World Cup qualifying group, knowing that anything less than a win will see them miss out on automatic qualification, with Norway on course to seal top spot.

The Italians are at risk of failing to qualify for their third consecutive World Cup finals, and may have to rely on the play-off route to confirm a place at next year’s tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Since taking the helm as head coach during the summer, Gattuso’s Italy have won all four of their qualifying games, winning 3-1 against Estonia in their most recent outing.

“I fall in love with these lads because of how they work and stay united,” Gattuso said.