Zionist regime’s national anthem booed during Italy World Cup qualifier

At the Bluenergy Stadium, part of the 10,000-strong audience loudly jeered the anthem, though applause from other spectators soon overtook the boos. A small group of 'Israeli' fans cheered and sang their anthem.

Earlier, thousands of demonstrators marched through northeastern Udine, calling for a sporting boycott of Zionist regime and chanting slogans such as “Free Palestine.”

Despite a heavy security presence of over 1,000 police officers and military personnel, with helicopters and drones monitoring the area, violence broke out after sunset. Authorities deployed tear gas and a water cannon to disperse the protesters.

On the field, Italy currently sits second in Group I, six points behind leaders Norway and three ahead of third-placed Zionist regime, with a game in hand on both sides.

Earlier, Italian authorities stepped up security measures in the city of Udine, deploying troops and special forces ahead of Tuesday night’s World Cup qualifier between Italy and Zionist regime, as tensions over the war in Gaza spilled onto the streets.

The high-stakes match comes after weeks of demonstrations across Italy, with protesters calling for Zionist regime’s suspension from international sports. Thousands gathered in Udine ahead of the game, chanting against Zionist regime’s participation.

Security officials have rolled out a heavy operation that includes army units, counterterrorism police, rooftop snipers, helicopters, and surveillance drones.