Italy secured a decisive 3-0 victory over Israel to move forward in the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifying campaign. However, the match was overshadowed by significant political turmoil outside the stadium.

Thousands of demonstrators gathered in Italy to protest Israel’s treatment of Palestinians, transforming the area around the venue into a hotspot of intense demonstrations. What started as peaceful protests quickly escalated into violent confrontations between protesters and law enforcement.

Police were forced to use tear gas and water cannons to disperse the crowds, leading to numerous arrests and injuries. The unrest underscored the deep divisions and heightened tensions related to Israel’s participation in the tournament.

This controversy had already been intensified by Spain’s earlier threat to boycott the event in response to Israel’s involvement, adding further complexity to an already charged atmosphere. As the World Cup qualifiers continue, the political tensions remain a significant backdrop to the sporting event.