Retegui’s Double Sparks Italy’s Surge Toward World Cup Qualification as Israel Falters Again

On a cool October night that pulsed with the significance of World Cup destiny, Italy produced the kind of clinical—almost ruthless—performance expected from four-time world champions. With a 3-0 victory over Israel, Italy took a decisive step toward qualification for the 2026 World Cup, capitalizing on a match that was as much about managing nerves as showcasing flair.

At an unknown venue that became the stage for Italian renewal, the Azzurri leaned on striker Mateo Retegui’s growing reputation as a finisher for the big occasion. Retegui broke open a tense contest in first-half stoppage time, converting from the penalty spot after Giacomo Raspadori was bundled over in the area. The spot kick, calmly dispatched into the bottom left corner, punctured Israel’s initial optimism and sent Italy into the break with a slender, if deserved, advantage.

Retegui’s ability to strike in key moments has been central to Italy’s resurgence in this qualification campaign, and the 74th minute provided further evidence. Latching onto a clever flick from Nicolò Barella, Retegui coolly slotted home his second, extinguishing any hopes Israel harbored of a late revival. The striker’s brace not only rewarded Italy for their patient buildup but also underscored the gulf in finishing quality between the two squads.

If there was still any doubt about the result, Gianluca Mancini erased it as the final whistle approached. So often the defensive bedrock, Mancini showcased his set-piece prowess in the 90th minute by rising above the crowd to power home a corner. The 3-0 scoreline reflected Italy’s control and offered a measure of revenge for the frenetic 5-4 shootout in their last meeting—a match still fresh in the memories of both camps.

This evening’s discipline and efficiency stood in stark contrast to September’s nine-goal thriller in Tel Aviv, where defensive shape seemed little more than a suggestion. Then, Italy required an offensive explosion from Moise Kean and Matteo Politano to escape with three points. This time, there was no need for desperation or improvisation; Italy’s back line, marshaled by Mancini and anchored by Gianluigi Donnarumma’s timely interventions, routinely snuffed out Israel’s forays.

Yet, for fleeting moments early in the second half, Israel threatened to rewrite the narrative. Manor Solomon, lively throughout, almost stunned the Italians in the 78th minute when his curling left-footed effort struck the post, the ball tantalizingly out of Donnarumma’s reach before it ricocheted away from danger. It was as close as Israel came, emblematic of their night—nearly, but not quite.

For Israel, the defeat compounds a harrowing away spell. Just days ago, they suffered a bruising 0-5 loss to Norway. Once again, the defense appeared brittle and the attack, despite the ingenuity of Oscar Gloukh and Solomon, lacked the decisive touch that had brought a 4-0 away win in Moldova earlier in the cycle. This third defeat in six matches leaves Israel with 9 points and a negative goal differential, now staring up at both group leaders Norway (a perfect 18 points from six games) and second-placed Italy (12 points from five).

Italy, meanwhile, have built a crescendo of form at the optimal moment. Fresh from dispatching Estonia 3-1 away just three days prior—a match highlighted by goals from Moise Kean and Retegui—the Azzurri have recovered from their lone stumble and are now four wins from five. The midfield trio of Barella, Tonali, and Locatelli provided a platform of composure and dynamism, rarely conceding possession and pressing Israel into hurried errors.

The standings now illustrate the shifting balance of Group Stage power. Norway, unbeaten, remain the team to chase. But with a match in hand and a favorable schedule, Italy have reasserted themselves as the primary threat to Norwegian dominance. For Israel, third place is under siege, and qualification hopes grow dimmer with every missed opportunity.

The stakes rise with each passing fixture. Italy have steadied their campaign and, with another measured performance, signaled that their blend of youthful energy and veteran steadiness could carry them not just through qualifying, but perhaps into the heart of another tournament run. Israel face an urgent need for introspection; their attacking verve has been too often undermined by a defense stretched beyond its limits.

As the campaign barrels toward its conclusion, Italy’s narrative is once again ascending. The Azzurri, battle-tested and increasingly polished, are positioning themselves for the spotlight of North America 2026. For Israel, every remaining match has become a must-win audition—a challenge as daunting as qualifying itself.