Tensions are running high ahead of Italy’s World Cup qualifier against Israel in Udine on October 14, with authorities preparing for large-scale pro-Palestinian demonstrations expected to take place outside the Stadio Friuli.
Reports suggest that as many as 10,000 protesters could gather around the venue, outnumbering the roughly 6,000 fans expected inside.
The build-up to the match has been overshadowed by calls from activists and local groups urging UEFA to suspend Israel due to the ongoing war in Gaza.
Protesters had already demonstrated outside Italy’s training base in Florence last week, demanding the fixture be canceled. Despite the mounting pressure, Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso confirmed that the game will go ahead, noting that forfeiting would result in an automatic 3-0 loss.
Ticket sales for the match have been slow, with only 4,000 seats sold as of Monday. Udine’s mayor, Alberto Felice De Toni, had earlier requested that the fixture be postponed, but Italy desperate to avoid missing a third straight World Cup has opted to proceed under tight security.
Both Italy and Israel sit six points behind group leaders Norway, with qualification hopes hanging in the balance. Authorities are planning a heavy police presence around the stadium to ensure the match proceeds safely amid growing political and public unrest.