SPORT – Italian Minister of Sport Abodi: Italy-Israel soccer match should be played

“What sets Israel apart from Russia, which was barred from participating in sporting events? I believe there is a difference, and I weigh my words responsibly. Russia is the aggressor, while Israel was attacked. Maybe we have completely forgotten this.” This was the response of Italian Minister of Sport Andrea Abodi when asked by journalists about the debate sparked by Democratic Party parliamentary member and former men’s volleyball national team coach Mauro Berruto.
According to Berruto, the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match planned for October 14 in Udine, Italy, should be suspended, and Israeli representatives should be banned from international sports tournaments. The minister firmly opposed this proposal, recalling that the October 7 attacks started everything, “beyond any judgement and how it is evolving.” Without October 7, Abodi said, “we would not be in this situation.” We also probably would not be in this position “if Hamas would not hide behind civilians.”

The match will take place exactly one year after the Nations League game between Italy and Israel, which was also held in Udine. The Azzurri won 4–1, thanks to two goals from Di Lorenzo and one each from Retegui and Frattesi. Israel’s lone goal came from Abu Fani. This time, however, what’s at stake is World Cup qualification. Italy hasn’t qualified for the tournament since 2014. Israel hasn’t qualified since 1970. That was the year of its only appearance. Norway currently leads the group with a perfect record of 12 points from four matches. Israel and Italy follow behind them with six and three points, respectively. Italy has one game in hand and cannot afford any mistakes in the race for second place, which would secure a spot in the playoffs.