UDINE, Italy (AP) — The World Cup qualifier between Italy and Israel took place without major incidents on Tuesday amid a heavy police presence that included snipers on the stadium roof.

Italy won 3-0 in a game that had been placed in the highest risk category despite a breakthrough ceasefire deal that has paused two years of war in Gaza.

There were skirmishes between protesters and police on the streets of Udine at a pro-Palestinian demonstration before the match but no serious disruptions during the game itself. However, stewards had to act quickly to prevent a couple of fans from running onto the field carrying Palestinian flags.

“Today wasn’t easy for us,” Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso said. “I want to thank the police who have done an incredible job in these days.”

The Israel team b

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