
Article by FOOTEM
A subtle act of dissent from Italy’s supporters.
The match between Israel and Italy was notable not only for its exciting goals and on-field action but also for a tense moment in the stands.
Details: Before the Group I World Cup qualifier began, the national anthems of both teams filled the stadium, following the usual practice.
However, the traveling Italian fans chose to make a political statement, expressing their anger and protesting against Israel amid the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict.
As Israel’s anthem played, the Italian fans turned their backs, booed the Israeli players, and held up signs that read “stop.”
Tensions rose further when the Israeli team wore black armbands in honor of victims from a recent terror attack at a Jerusalem bus stop, which resulted in six deaths.
Earlier, the Italian Coaches’ Association had released an open letter calling for UEFA and FIFA to suspend Israel from football competitions.
Reminder: Gennaro Gattuso’s first matches. Italy announces squad for World Cup qualifiers.
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