Gattuso's Italy Shows Resilience in 5-4 Win Over Israel

Gennaro Gattuso

Gennaro Gattuso's Italy team proves resilient in a thrilling 5-4 victory over Israel, keeping their World Cup qualification hopes alive.

“I'll thank the team in the dressing room, but if we want to achieve something important, we have to grow...”

Gennaro Gattuso praised Italy's fighting spirit after their thrilling 5-4 win over Israel in a World Cup qualifier, but expressed concerns about the team's defensive vulnerabilities. Italy came from behind twice, thanks to Moise Kean's double, and although they seemed to have sealed the win with a two-goal lead, Israel pushed them to the limit, forcing Italy to score in added time to secure the victory.

Gennaro Gattuso's Italy team has gotten off to a winning start under his leadership, replacing Luciano Spalletti. After a dominating 5-0 victory over Estonia, they secured another win against Israel, albeit in a much more dramatic and unpredictable match. Italy's thrilling 5-4 win over Israel showcased their ability to fight back from adversity, with Moise Kean scoring twice and Sandro Tonali netting the decisive goal in stoppage time.

“We're crazy - we conceded some absurd goals but we will hold onto this win,” Gattuso said, highlighting the team's fragility in defense. Despite the shaky defensive display, Gattuso praised his team's fighting spirit and ability to react to setbacks. “Credit to the team, because we had the strength to react to every blow we took, but we can't allow easy goals like we did today,” he added.

Gattuso acknowledged that his team needs to improve its defensive solidity, stating, “We're too fragile, we give away goals too easily. The boys know it, but the problem is mine, not theirs.” Despite these challenges, Italy's victory has kept their World Cup qualification hopes alive.

“Our opponents surprised us a bit, they were marking man-to-man. Today our legs weren't at their best but that's normal, it's always like this in the second match, though we need to improve.”

A vital three points earned ✅🔥#ISRITA #Azzurri #VivoAzzurro pic.twitter.com/9UXX6vJ7Qb

— Italy ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (@Azzurri_En) September 8, 2025

Italy struggled defensively in their 5-4 win over Israel, twice conceding own goals and facing moments of vulnerability. Goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma was fortunate to avoid another own goal when he fisted the ball into his own net, only for it to be disallowed due to a foul on him. Despite these defensive lapses, Italy managed to secure the win thanks to a dramatic late goal from Sandro Tonali.

“We're too fragile, we give away goals too easily. The boys know it but the problem is mine, not theirs,” Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso said after the match. He acknowledged the team's defensive issues while praising their resilience and ability to fight back from setbacks. Gattuso's comments highlight the challenges Italy faces in solidifying their defense as they aim for World Cup qualification.

Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso emphasized the need for improvement after his team's 5-4 win over Israel. “To play as a unit, we need to improve in certain areas. My staff and I need to improve as soon as possible, I'm not criticizing my players,” he said, taking responsibility for the team's defensive issues. Despite struggling at the back, Italy showed resilience, coming from behind twice thanks to Moise Kean's double and securing the win with a late goal from Sandro Tonali.

The match showcased a different spirit from Italy compared to their 3-0 loss to Norway, which led to Luciano Spalletti's departure. Under Gattuso, the team demonstrated a fighting mentality, fighting back from setbacks to secure a crucial victory. This win has kept Italy's World Cup qualification hopes alive, with the team now focusing on solidifying their defense and building on their newfound spirit.

“Credit to the team, because we had the strength to react to every blow we took, but we can't allow easy goals like we did today,” Gattuso said.

“Even though it wasn't a great day, there was a desire to fight back and that's the most important thing.

“I'll thank the team in the locker room, but if we want to achieve something important, we have to grow.”

Italy currently sits second in their World Cup qualifying group with nine points, ahead of Israel on goal difference due to their superior goal tally. They have a game in hand, providing flexibility in their schedule. However, they trail Norway by three points, who have played four matches. The standings are crucial as the group leaders will secure direct qualification for the World Cup finals, while the second-placed team will advance to the playoffs.

Key Highlights of the Match:

• Italy Scored 10 Goals in Two Games: Under Gattuso, Italy has scored 10 goals in their two games so far, but conceded 4.

• Moise Kean's Performance: Kean scored twice in the match against Israel and now has 5 goals in 3 World Cup qualifying appearances.

• Sandro Tonali's Winner: Tonali's late strike sealed the win for Italy, showcasing his technical skill and impact on the game.