By DANIELLA MATAR, Associated Press

UDINE, Italy (AP) — Snipers were on the roof of the Israel team hotel in Udine and the Italian city is on maximum alert ahead of a World Cup qualifier on Tuesday.

The Israel team bus was escorted to the stadium by 13 police vehicles, including some from the special forces, and several motorbikes.

The sound of helicopters surveilling the city has filled the air since the morning, hours before Italy’s match against Israel was set to kick off at Stadio Friuli. Drones could also be spotted in the sky.

Police officers patrol outside the Fruili Hotel where the Israeli national team is staying, ahead of a World Cup 2026, Group I qualifying soccer match between Italy and Israel at the Friuli Stadium in Udine, Italy, Tuesday, Oct.14, 2025. (AP Photo/Luca Br

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