ANSA 09/10/2025

ANSA - Gattuso admits Italy 'fragile' after 'crazy' win over Israel

Victory keeps alive hopes of direct qualification for World Cup

Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso admitted that his team is "fragile" in defence after Monday's "crazy" 5-4 win over Israel in Debrecen, Hungary - a result that keeps alive the Azzurri's hopes of qualifying directly for next year's World Cup without having to go through the playoffs.
    Italy are second in European qualifying Group I with nine points from three games, three points behind leaders Norway.
    "We'll take the win, which was fundamental for us, but we're completely crazy," said Gattuso, who took over the national team after Luciano Spalletti was fired following the 3-0 defeat in Norway in the opening qualifier.
    "We conceded some silly goals.
    "We are fragile, we concede goals too easily.

 

It's not a criticism of the players, it's my problem, which I have to sort with my staff.
    "I have to give credit the lads, who had the desire to deal with every heavy blow.