Italy survived a pulsating 5-4 contest against Israel in Debrecen to strengthen their push for a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Azzurri fell behind in the 16th minute when Manuel Locatelli turned Dan Biton’s cross into his own net, but Moise Kean struck before half-time to level matters.
Dor Peretz restored Israel’s advantage shortly after the restart, only for Kean to immediately equalise again.
Matteo Politano put Italy in front for the first time, and substitute Giacomo Raspadori extended the lead to 4-2.
Late drama followed as Alessandro Bastoni’s own goal and a second from Peretz brought Israel level with just minutes remaining.
But Sandro Tonali produced the decisive moment in the 90th minute, curling home to seal victory and hand new coach Gennaro Gattuso his second win from two matches in charge.
Italy now sit in a strong position to at least secure a play-off spot as they chase qualification after missing the last two World Cups, while Israel were left to rue letting a result slip away despite twice leading.
