The highly awaited UEFA Nations League A match between Israel and Italy is set for September 9, 2024. This exciting game will take place at the Bozsik Arena in Budapest, accommodating 8,200 eager fans. Both teams find themselves in different situations within Group A2. A strong performance here could shake up the standings. Israel arrives after a 3-1 loss to Belgium on September 6, revealing weaknesses in their defense. They currently sit third in the group, reflecting their middling form.
On the flip side, Italy is riding high after an impressive 3-1 win over France on September 6. This victory puts them at the top of the group, showcasing their great form and intent to dominate. The last time Israel faced Italy was during the 2017 World Cup qualifiers, where Italy narrowly won 1-0. As both squads gear up for this clash amid forecasts of heavy rain, adaptability will be key. Each team knows the challenges, especially if the rain-soaked pitch becomes tricky.
Israel vs Italy Prediction & Betting Tip
- Prediction: Italy to win
- Odds: 1.31 for Italy, which indicates their favorite status.
- Suggested Bet: Israel +1.50 (Asian Handicap).
| Israel vs Italy Prediction | |
|---|---|
| Recommended Bet | Odds |
| Israel +1.50 (AH) | 1.31 |
Important Factors: The odds highlight Italy’s strong position at the group’s top, buoyed by their recent win over France. With heavy rain expected, playing conditions might heavily affect the outcome. Such weather could level the playing field, giving Israel a chance to exploit any mistakes by Italy. Yet, Italy’s excellent current form and superior skill make them the favorites for this match.
Israel vs Italy Odds
The betting odds favor Italy, underscoring their high success probability. Here’s a breakdown:
| Israel vs Italy Betting Odds | |
|---|---|
| Bet | Odds |
| Italy Win | 1.31 |
| Draw | 5.23 |
| Israel Win | 12.03 |
Italy’s commanding odds reflect a 76.34% winning probability, while Israel, the underdog, has just a 10.67% chance. A draw is more probable than an Israeli win but still considered low at 19.12%. These odds suggest a competitive match, although Italy is expected to leverage its current momentum for a win, despite the forecasted challenging conditions.
Israel Team Analysis
Israel Recent Performance
- Recent Form: Israel has mixed results, with two wins and three losses in their last five games.
- Goals Scored/Conceded: Their attacking line managed 8 goals, but their defense conceded 10.
| Recent Matches | Score |
|---|---|
| Israel vs Belgium | 1-3 |
| Israel vs France | 2-1 |
| Israel vs Morocco | 0-1 |
| Israel vs Estonia | 3-2 |
| Israel vs Egypt | 2-3 |
In the recent Belgium match, there were moments of promise. Anan Khalaili scored a crucial equalizer before halftime, but defensive gaps ultimately led to their downfall. They have a shortage of central defenders, as they picked only two natural options, adding challenges. Their strategy now focuses on resolving defensive issues while leveraging offensive capabilities shown in past games to stay in League A.
Israel Key Players
Key players to watch in Israel’s lineup include Oscar Gloukh, Anan Khalaili, and Manor Solomon. These players are pillars of the team’s offensive approach and will be key in efforts to break down Italy’s defense.
- Anan Khalaili: Showed his goal-scoring ability against Belgium, crucial from midfield.
- Oscar Gloukh & Manor Solomon: Known for creativity, these midfielders drive offensive momentum. Their synergy is crucial to Israel’s attack plans.
Combining local talents with internationals gives their play versatility. Although young, these players are crucial to tactical plans to match Italy’s strengths. Tactical shifts are expected to maximize creative talents while keeping defensive integrity.
Israel Suspensions & Injuries
The squad faces challenges with notable absences due to injury and defensive shortages.
| Player | Injury | Return Status |
|---|---|---|
| Daniel Peretz | Injury | Mid-September 2024 |
The team’s absence of key defenders requires strategic changes. Daniel Peretz’s injury strains options further, prompting opportunities for young talents to emerge. Emphasizing tactical resourcefulness to form a stable defense is key. This strategy will shape their response to competitive pressure, especially against Italy.
Israel Tactics and Formation
- Formation Adjustments: Israel is aiming to adjust formations to cover defensive weaknesses, likely reinforcing their backline.
- Offensive Plan: Rely heavily on key players to crack defensive setups.
- Play Balance: Their goal is to find harmony between offense and maintaining defense.
Reacting to strong opponents like Italy, Israeli coaches focus on strategies maximizing set-piece opportunities, as seen in prior matches. The priority is forming a unit that resists pressure while tackling experienced midfield setups.
Italy Team Analysis
Italy Recent Performance
- Recent Form: Italy’s last five games show two wins, one draw, and two losses.
- Goals Scored/Conceded: Efficiently scored 6 goals and conceded the same number.
| Recent Matches | Score |
|---|---|
| Italy vs France | 3-1 |
| Italy vs Belgium | 1-2 |
| Italy vs Croatia | 1-1 |
| Italy vs Portugal | 0-1 |
| Italy vs Spain | 1-2 |
Italy’s win against France signals a return to form after previous losses, showcasing their ability to compete strongly in the Nations League. Their adaptability and counter-attacking strengths stood out in this strong display. Game plans are bolstered by younger players stepping up amid ongoing squad transitions.
Italy Key Players
Top players to watch for Italy include Federico Dimarco, Davide Frattesi, and Gianluca Raspadori.
- Dimarco: Showed Italy’s strength by providing an equalizer against France with skill and precision.
- Frattesi & Raspadori: Key in victories, focusing on teamwork and defensive plays against rivals.
The midfield’s strength is central to Italy’s tactical control of the game flow, while the forwards adapt well. Adjustments focus on counter-attacking chances, emphasizing teamwork for a coherent, effective strategy against Israel.
Italy Suspensions & Injuries
Despite squad challenges, Italy remains strong, adapting strategies to use available talents.
| Player | Injury | Return Status |
|---|---|---|
| Domenico Berardi | Cruciate ligament | Nov 2024 |
| Giorgio Scalvini | Cruciate ligament | Feb 2025 |
| Gianluca Scamacca | Cruciate ligament | Apr 2025 |
| Federico Chiesa | Lack of fitness | Doubtful |
| Davide Frattesi | Thigh injury | Few days |
With ongoing injuries, Italy adjusts lineups for tactical needs. Players gain chances for significant contributions. Younger athletes bring fresh dynamics to gameplay. Recuperation is optimized for vital player return. Current lineup focus ensures no disruptions against Israel.
Italy Tactics and Formation
- Expected Formation: Emphasizes counter-attacks, with a strong central midfield.
- Play Dynamics: Blends cohesive dynamic and discipline to control the field.
- Strategic Deployment: Across offense and defense, seamless coordination.
Italy’s approach with Luciano Spalletti centers on counter-play, promising engaging multi-dimensional competition. Dual tactical formations support strong counter-attacks with defensive solidity. Midfield playmaking is crucial, allowing Italy to control tempo and break through defenses.
Israel vs Italy Head-to-Head Statistics
Italy’s historical success over Israel boosts their confidence ahead of this matchup.
| Home | Away | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Italy | Israel | 1-0 |
Italy’s continued superiority over Israel lends them an edge in confidence going into this match. This head-to-head record highlights Italy’s tactical advantage from past encounters, positioning them favorably. Israel, in response, must work hard to counter Italy’s experience and strategy.
Venue and Weather
The Bozsik Arena will host this encounter, creating a small but lively atmosphere. The weather points to heavy rain through the match, escalating strategic challenges for both teams.
A rain-soaked field could slow ball movement, increasing unpredictability and chances of passing errors. Both sides may adjust tactics to stress possession and minimize risks of slipping.
Windy conditions are mild, so not much will affect aerial play. However, rain may level the playing field, challenging Italy’s advantage and promoting tactical alertness. Italy’s technical skills could help in these conditions, while Israel might pounce on any confusion.
As the teams face off, recognizing these weather-induced elements will be key for maintaining competitive play and strategic success.
