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.”
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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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