World Cup qualifying witnessed contrasting fortunes for Sweden and Italy in their recent matches. Alexander Isak, the high-profile Liverpool signing, made his return to the Swedish national team, but it wasn't enough to prevent a damaging defeat against Kosovo. Meanwhile, Italy emerged victorious in a thrilling 5-4 encounter against Israel, securing a crucial win in their qualifying campaign.

Sweden's struggles continued as they fell to a 2-0 loss away to Kosovo. This defeat compounds their earlier setback, a 2-2 draw against Slovenia, where they conceded a 90th-minute equalizer. Isak, who recently moved to Liverpool for a reported £125 million, appeared as a substitute but couldn't spark a comeback for his nation. Sweden initially benched Isak in their prior match against Slovenia due to concerns about his fitness and lack of recent competitive play. Coach Jon Dahl Tomasson emphasized that Isak had limited training and hadn't played since May. Despite also fielding Arsenal's Viktor Gyökeres, Sweden's attack failed to break down a resolute Kosovo defense. The loss leaves Sweden in a precarious position in Group B, sitting third with one point, behind Switzerland and Kosovo.

In stark contrast, Italy secured a dramatic 5-4 victory against Israel in a match held in Hungary. The game was a rollercoaster, featuring two own goals from Italy, multiple lead changes, and a late equalizer from Israel. Despite the chaotic nature of the match, Sandro Tonali emerged as the hero for Italy, scoring a stoppage-time winner to seal the victory. Italy twice came from behind and conceded a late equalizer but still managed to win the game.

Israel took the lead in the 16th minute when Manuel Locatelli inadvertently deflected Dan Biton's cross into his own net. Italy responded with a powerful low shot from Moise Kean, leveling the score. Israel regained the lead, but Italy fought back, eventually taking a 4-2 lead. However, Israel refused to surrender, scoring twice to tie the game at 4-4. Tonali's late goal secured a vital win for Italy, keeping their World Cup qualifying hopes alive.

The victory propels Italy to second place in Group I, increasing the likelihood that their head-to-head match against Israel on November 16 will be decisive. This result extends Italy's unbeaten record against Israel to eight games. Gennaro Gattuso, the Italy coach, described the match as the "craziest game" he has ever been involved in.