Italy Edges Israel 2-1 in Nations League, Moves to Top of Group A2

Italy maintained their impressive post-Euro 2024 recovery with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Israel in the Nations League on Monday. The victory, achieved in Budapest due to the security situation in Israel, placed the Azzurri at the top of Group A2 with six points.

Despite a slow start, Italy grew into the match, with Davide Frattesi breaking the deadlock in the 38th minute by chesting home Federico Dimarco’s precise cross. Frattesi’s sixth international goal since Luciano Spalletti took over as coach gave Italy a deserved lead.

Israel came close to equalizing early in the second half, but Sagiv Jehezkel failed to convert a close-range opportunity. Moise Kean doubled Italy’s advantage in the 62nd minute, marking his first goal for the national team in three years.

Israel’s Mohamed Abu Fani pulled one back in the final minute, but it was too late to change the outcome as Italy held on for the win. With France defeating Belgium 2-0 in Lyon, Italy now sits three points clear at the top of their group.