Napoli forward Matteo Politano admitted he couldn`t recall his last goal for Italy, highlighting the “madness” of their thrilling 5-4 victory against Israel.
Politano`s crucial strike in Debrecen marked the first time the Azzurri took the lead in a game where Moise Kean had already equalized twice, responding to an initial own goal by Manuel Locatelli and a subsequent effort from Dor Peretz.
Italy initially established a commanding 4-2 lead through Giacomo Raspadori, only to see it evaporate to a tense 4-4. The drama culminated in the 91st minute when Sandro Tonali`s late cross-shot found its way through a crowded box, securing the dramatic win.
Politano Reflects on Italy`s “Madness” Victory
(Image: The Italy squad celebrates during their match against Israel)
“It was pure madness, an incredible game where absolutely everything transpired, but we`re thrilled to have clinched the win,” Politano commented to RAI Sport.
This goal was particularly significant for Politano, as it ended a four-year scoring drought for his national team, his last goals being a brace in a 7-0 friendly victory against San Marino on May 28, 2021.
He further added, “I honestly can`t even recall my last goal for Italy! I`m genuinely pleased with how we approached these two matches; this is the correct mindset, and we must maintain it.”
Football Italia also provided player ratings for the Israel 4-5 Italy match.
This chaotic 5-4 win against Israel followed Gennaro Gattuso`s debut as coach, which saw a commanding 5-0 victory over Estonia.
Politano concluded, “We haven`t been working with the coach for long, so there`s substantial work ahead. We conceded an excessive number of goals, yet we displayed resilience and fought until the very end for the victory.”
With this win, Italy moves into second place in their 2026 World Cup qualifying group, matching Israel`s nine points but holding a game in hand.
