In northeastern Italy’s city of Udine, security measures are draconian ahead of tonight’s Nations League Italy-Israel.
The match is set to kick off at 8:45 p.m. local time (9:45 p.m. ET) and is expected to be attended by 11,700 fans. The total capacity of the Friuli Stadium is 25,000 seats.
All around the surrounding area, railings have been installed to make multiple checks before fans enter the sports facility.
Meanwhile, a demonstration in support of the Palestinian people is to take place at 5pm, Italian time, starting from a central point in Udine. Thousands of people are expected to take part in the mobilization. Police and city prefecture officials have let it be known that strict controls have been in place for several days to limit the possibility of violent incidents.
Outside the hotel where the Israeli national football team has been staying since yesterday, Sunday afternoon, the presence of carabinieri and police is impressive, to guarantee the safety of the players.
“We are getting ready to play this match, hoping to convince some people. I believe that many Israelis don’t want war and we have to play with them. We have to convince others that this whole thing has to stop,” Italy national football team coach Luciano Spalletti told Rai.
