Tensions flared in Udine, Italy, ahead of the World Cup qualifier between Italy and Israel, as police used water cannons to disperse a group of pro-Palestinian protesters.

Earlier in the day, around 10,000 people participated in a largely peaceful pro-Palestinian march organized by local civic groups in the city center. The demonstration proceeded without incident for nearly three hours as it moved toward its final destination.

Violence erupted when a smaller faction of roughly 50 individuals, many with their faces covered, clashed with law enforcement officers. Police responded with water cannons to restore order and prevent further escalation.

Authorities emphasized the importance of maintaining public safety ahead of the high-profile soccer match, which has drawn heightened political attention due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

The incident highlights the challenges cities face in balancing the right to protest with crowd control during international sporting events.