Three days ago, Bloomfield Stadium watched on as Israel reached their peak on the international stage, beating Albania 2-1 to confirm their spot in League A of the UEFA Nations League next time out and a play-off spot for Euro 2024.
The ground was almost full again last night, this time for the U21 national team and their play-off for Euro 2023, against the Republic of Ireland. The first leg, in Dublin, ended with a 1-1 draw, making this match crucial.
Coming into the match, Israel was looking to qualify for their third Euro U21 tournament, the last one being in 2013 when they qualified as hosts. The last time they’ve made it through qualifiers was back in 2007, while their opponents have never played in the tournament.
Oscar Gloukh, the 18-year-old hot prospect of Israeli football
Despite having the home advantage, Israel failed to score in the game. Ireland, too, struggled to make an impact.
Although it was an impressive night for two of the host’s key players. Oscar Gloukh was promoted from the U19’s for this game, and had several shots on target, while Liel Abada, who has already scored for the senior team, also had chances.
Penalties were inevitable, and the attention was on Daniel Peretz. Maccabi Tel Aviv’s goalkeeper is considered a hot prospect in Israel, and has the potential to become one of the next generation’s key players.
He was as cold as ice, stopping three of Ireland’s four spot kicks. He also, somehow, scored the second penalty.
Daniel Peretz, Israel’s hero of the night (Shaul Greenfeld)
Peretz’s saves from the spot were enough to seal the win for Israel and, with the fourth penalty, Standard Liege’s Osher Davida gave his side the win.
Israel can now celebrate multiple recent footballing successes. As well as the senior team qualifying for the European Championship play-offs, the U19’s also reached the finals of their Euros. At a club level, teams have performed tremendously well in European competitions, with Maccabi Haifa reaching the Champions League group stage.
Is this a one off, or the start of something new?
Edited by Alex Smith
