Italian Football Chief Gravina reveals why Italy did not boycott Israel match – Football Italia

Gabriele Gravina, the president of the Italian Football Federation revealed some more background on Italy’s World Cup qualifying match against Israel.

The game drew a lot of media attention as a result of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Some Azzurri fans were calling for their Italy to boycott the game but Gravina has revealed that “Not playing against Israel means not going to the World Cup and even making things easier for Israel’s national team.”

Israel would have been handed an automatic 3-0 bye and things would have been much harder for Italy as they seek to chase a place in next year’s competition.

Gravina reveals why Italy did not Boycott Israel match

Speaking to Radio anch’io Sport, with quotes via AlfredoPedulla.com, Gravina said “First of all, we reiterate the concept that Gattuso has repeatedly emphasised.”

“We are all human beings, all citizens of this world. We are saddened, very saddened, because we care about human dignity. We are very close to the people who are suffering in Palestine, especially the children and innocent civilians.”

Israel’s treatment of said innocent civilians and children is why fans were calling for Italy to boycott the game. Regardless of your thoughts on the conflict, it is always upsetting to see people suffer needlessly and if there were no consequences, perhaps the Azzurri may not have played Israel.