POLICE snipers were spotted on the roof of a stadium ahead of Israel’s crucial World Cup qualifier in Italy.
The match has been placed in the highest risk category despite a breakthrough ceasefire deal that has paused two years of war in Gaza.
GettyPolice snipers were spotted on the roof of a stadium ahead of Israel’s crucial World Cup qualifier against Italy[/caption]
GettySecurity is seen on the roof of the Udine Stadium[/caption]
A pro-Palestinian march was scheduled to start in the city centre a few hours before kick-off and is expected to attract around 10,000 people.
It will be kept away from the Udine stadium which is on the outskirts of the city.
Snipers laid on the roof of the arena, home of Serie A club Udinese, ahead of Israel’s high profile visit on Tuesday night.
The Israel team bus was escorted to the stadium with maximum security and military presence.
The area has been declared a “red zone,” and only fans with tickets could pass through the tall metal barriers.
From the air, helicopter drones are surveilling the ground, while water cannons have been set up as an anti-terrorism measure.
Fans were advised to arrive early as every supporter was forced to go through metal detectors.
Just over 9,000 tickets have been sold for the qualifier at 25,000-seat stadium.
GettyThe Stadio Friuli was surrounded with a heavy military police presence[/caption]
GettyThe Israel team bus was escorted to the stadium with maximum security[/caption]
Stewards have been put on high alert for any pitch invaders.
One attendee invaded the pitch wearing a “Free Gaza” T-Shirt during Israel’s 5-0 defeat in Norway last Saturday.
Thousands of pro-Palestine protesters swarmed the streets of Oslo too.
Israel are hot on the heels of Italy in their World Cup qualifying group with hopes of securing a play-off spot by finishing second.
A win on Tuesday will see them go level on 12 points with the legendary Azzurri, as Norway sit top.
Prem stars including Tottenham duo Destiny Udogie and Guglielmo Vicario, City keeper Gigi Donnarumma and Newcastle star Sandro Tonali are all in the Italian squad.
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