Mon Oct 14 20:00:00 UTC 2024: ## Italy Dominate Israel in Nations League, One Foot in Quarterfinals
**Udine, Italy** – Italy secured a commanding 4-1 victory over Israel in their Nations League clash on Monday, putting them on the cusp of qualifying for the quarterfinals.
Giovanni Di Lorenzo was the star of the show, netting a brace to lead Italy’s offensive onslaught. The defender first headed in a free kick from Giacomo Raspadori and later finished off a well-worked move with a low shot from the edge of the box.
The match began with a tense atmosphere, given the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and the heavy security presence in Udine. However, the game itself was a display of Italian dominance.
Mateo Retegui opened the scoring in the 41st minute with a penalty, before Di Lorenzo extended the lead in the 54th. Mohammed Abu Fani pulled one back for Israel in the 66th minute, but Italy quickly regained control. Davide Frattesi made it 3-1 in the 72nd minute, setting the stage for Di Lorenzo’s second goal.
“We surprised them a few times in the first half,” said Italy coach Luciano Spalletti. “The boys played a great game.”
The win keeps Italy top of League A Group Two with 10 points, one ahead of France. They need just one point from their remaining two matches to secure a place in the next round.
Israel, who were promoted to the top-tier League A last season, remain at the bottom of the group without a single point.
“You can see Spalletti’s hand on this team,” said Israel coach Ran Ben Shimon. “When they play like they did tonight, it becomes really difficult for the opponents.”
Italy next faces Belgium away in November before their final home match against France.
First Piper 