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Where Italy stand in 2026 World Cup qualifying Group I

Originally posted on Football Italia  |  By Susy Campanale  |  Last updated Sep 5, 2025 6:05 PM ET

Italy remain third in Group I after their 5-0 win over Estonia, but have the opportunity to catch Israel in second place on Monday and close on Norway.

Only the top team from each group goes directly into the 2026 World Cup, with the runners-up entering the play-offs.

The Azzurri started their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign rather late, due to their participation in the Nations League quarter-finals last summer.

That is one of the reasons they are playing catch-up, along with starting the group with a 3-0 defeat in Norway in June.

Erling Haaland’s side had a day off today, but remain on top with a maximum 12 points from four matches played.

How Italy’s group changed today

Israel earned a 4-0 victory away to Moldova, consolidating second place on nine points from four games.

The Azzurri have only played three, the loss to Norway followed by a 2-0 victory over Moldova and 5-0 hammering of Estonia.

This evening’s result bolstered their goal difference too, which now stands at +4, although still a very long way off Norway’s +11.

It means Monday’s showdown between Italy and Israel could be decisive, as a victory would send the Azzurri into second place on nine points.

Due to the on-going security situation, that match will be on neutral turf in Debrecen, Hungary.

This article first appeared on Football Italia and was syndicated with permission.

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