Italy preserved their flawless record in the Nations League with a narrow 2-1 win over Israel on Monday, taking place at the Bozsik Arena in Budapest.
Davide Frattesi and Moise Kean scored for Italy, with goals in each half proving decisive. Frattesi netted his goal in the 38th minute, capitalizing on Federico Dimarco's precise cross. Kean added Italy's second in the 62nd minute, marking his first international goal in nearly three years. Israel's Mohamed Abu Fani scored a late consolation goal in the final minute.
Italy's victory comes as they continue their recovery following a disappointing end to their Euro 2024 campaign, where they were eliminated in the last-16 stage. Despite the subdued atmosphere due to the security situation in the Middle East, Italy managed to secure the win.
The match, played in front of a crowd of 2,000, was notably less lively compared to typical senior international fixtures. Prior to kickoff, a small group of Italy supporters turned their backs during Israel's national anthem.
Italy's performance showed improvement from their previous 3-1 victory over France in Paris. Although initially slow to get going, they took control of the game after Frattesi's goal. Israel had a chance to equalize early in the second half, but Sagiv Jehezkel missed an opportunity to score from close range following Dor Peretz's scuffed shot.
Italy, under the management of Luciano Spalletti, are showing resilience and form following their Euro 2024 disappointment.
