Spalletti Emphasises Learning From Belgium Mistake As Italy Prepares For Israel Match

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Italy's manager, Luciano Spalletti, praised his team's determination but emphasized the need to learn from past errors as they prepare to face Israel in the Nations League. Italy leads their group by one point over France, who recently defeated Israel 4-1. Italy drew 2-2 with Belgium after losing a two-goal lead due to Lorenzo Pellegrini's red card for striking Arthur Theate.

In their earlier group-stage match, Italy secured a 2-1 victory against Israel in Budapest, thanks to goals from Davide Frattesi and Moise Kean. Despite this win, Spalletti anticipates a challenging game as Israel seeks redemption following their heavy loss to France. "The team is working hard, sweating for the shirt," Spalletti stated at a press conference.

Spalletti highlighted that one mistake can undo all efforts in football, urging his players to learn from the Belgium draw. He stressed the importance of maintaining balance and organization against Israel. "Israel are a good team that can play football," he noted, emphasizing the need for Italy to control the game.

Spalletti mentioned uncertainties about the starting lineup due to the game's complexity but confirmed Guglielmo Vicario will replace Gianluigi Donnarumma as goalkeeper. He acknowledged Israel's varied tactics, sometimes defending deep and other times pressing aggressively. Juventus midfielder Nicolo Fagioli is vying for a starting spot alongside Torino's Samuele Ricci.

Fagioli has been working diligently and deserves more playing time, according to Spalletti. However, he refrained from revealing too much about the lineup. "He can play with Ricci," Spalletti said, adding that Fagioli must adapt by changing tempo and direction while using midfield dynamics effectively.

Spalletti believes Fagioli can excel in front of the defence if he learns to evade man-marking and use midfield spaces creatively. As Italy prepares for this crucial match against Israel, they aim to build on past performances while addressing previous shortcomings on the field.