Featured Image Credit: Getty
Topics: FIFA World Cup, Football World Cup, Football, Italy
Marcus Chan
The official Palestine social media account has reacted after Italy all but ended Israel's hopes of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.
On Tuesday night, Gennaro Gattuso's men beat Israel 3-0 at the Bluenergy Stadium in Udine, thanks to a brace by Mateo Retegui plus a goal from Gianluca Mancini.
As a result of Italy's win, Israel now face an almost impossible task to secure a play-off spot.
They would need to win their final remaining match and hope Italy lose both of theirs. Israel will also need a massive goal difference swing of 15.
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Following Italy's victory on Tuesday night, the official Palestine account reposted the final scoreline and also posted a pasta emoji.
Since October 2023, more than 70,000 people were reportedly killed by Israeli forces in Gaza, following the start of Israel's war on Palestine.
The war was started after Hamas - a group that controls the Gaza Strip - invaded Israel, killing around 1200 people and taking around 250 hostages.
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Israel's attack on Gaza since then was declared a genocide by a United Nations commission, with Gaza also meeting all three UN criteria for famine.
Last week, a ceasefire deal was agreed, which included the exchange of hostages.
Prior to kick-off between Italy and Israel, a section the home fans were heard booing the Israeli national anthem, something that could lead to a FIFA punishment.
In November 2021, Scotland were fined over £8000 after a number of their fans booed the Israeli national anthem at Hampden Park.
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It was suggested that Scotland broke one of FIFA's rules, which stated: "Order and security at matches (disturbance during national anthems, use of objects - flag - to transmit a message that is not appropriate for a sports event)."
Israel will complete their 2026 World Cup qualifying fixtures next month when they take on Moldova at the Zimbru Stadium on November 16.