Italian authorities are on ‘maximum alert’ for Tuesday’s World Cup qualifying fixture between Italy and Israel, but the Interior Ministry denies it has authorised the Mossad to escort the travelling team.
Next week’s game between Italy and Israel in Udine will require extra security measures from Italian authorities despite the Gaza casefire coming into effect today.
High alert for Italy vs. Israel: the security measures
As reported by Gazzetta, a street demonstration is already planned for the matchday on Tuesday, October 14, but the Udine Prefect Domenico Lione fears the event could still be “an opportunity for infiltration by violent groups.”
Therefore, there will be restrictions for commercial activities that will be prevented from selling products in glass, ceramic or can containers on Tuesday. Outdoor seating areas should also be removed to prevent possible troublemakers from using objects as improvised weapons.
The demonstration will take place in the city centre, far from the stadium and pre-screenings for ticket holders will begin one km from the gates and be reinforced with anti-terrorism devices designed to detect weapons and explosives.
Less than 5,000 tickets sold for Italy vs. Israel
The Stadio Friuli has a 25,000 capacity, but possible tensions off the field have discouraged fans from buying tickets, as fewer than 5,000 have been sold for now.
The Israeli team will fly to a secret location after tomorrow’s game against Norway, and Gazzetta reiterates that the travelling squad will be escorted by Mossad agents, despite the Interior Minister’s denial of having granted authorisation.