Rome, Oct. 10 (LaPresse) – “We need to get as many points as possible because Israel is right there, we can’t afford to calculate. We won’t automatically go to the playoffs, and we can’t play with fire.”
This is what Rino Gattuso, the coach of the Italian national team, said ahead of the match against Estonia, which is crucial for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. “Tomorrow will be an important game, and in three days, there will be another one,” he added. “Until mathematics give us the playoffs, we must earn it. We can’t joke around and need to stay serious: my players and I know this, there’s still a lot to do, and we’re playing for a lot. Let’s keep that in mind.”
Gattuso mentioned that he and his players will not watch the first half of the Norway vs. Israel match. “We have to focus on tomorrow’s match. We’re playing for a lot, and we need to get points, and whatever happens, happens. Maximum concentration, and then we’ll see what happens,” he stated.
“I have to thank these players, there’s an atmosphere I like, but also desire and intensity. We need to learn to sense danger, and we also like to be in the opponent’s half. I’m very happy with what I’m seeing. The guys get along well, it’s almost a shame we have to play tomorrow. We need to confirm ourselves, I can assure you I see a great environment and strong training sessions,” he concluded.