Gattuso hails Italy’s “craziest game” after 5-4 win

Gennaro Gattuso (Italy)
September 2025

Italy beat Israel 5-4 in a thrilling World Cup qualifier, with Tonali scoring a stoppage-time winner. Gattuso admitted it was the “craziest game” of his career, as Italy blew multiple leads before eventually securing vital points. Gattuso criticised Italy’s reckless attacking approach that allowed Israel to counter repeatedly. Despite the defensive lapses, the late winner boosted Italy to second in Group I, three points behind leaders Norway, reviving hopes of reaching the 2026 World Cup play-offs.