DEBRECEN, HUNGARY — Israel launched their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign with a gritty 2-1 win over Estonia on Saturday night in Debrecen, Hungary.
Despite falling behind early, Ran Ben Shimon’s side showed resilience and attacking intent to turn the match around and collect valuable three points in Group I.
The evening began on a sour note for Israel, as Estonia struck first in the 10th minute. Defender Maksim Paskotši capitalized on a loose ball in the box following a set piece and calmly slotted past Daniel Peretz to silence the Israeli supporters in the stands.
But Israel found a quick response, albeit in a strange fashion. In the 23rd minute, a dangerous cross into the box caused chaos in the Estonian defence, and goalkeeper Karl Hein misjudged the ball, deflecting it into his own net to level the score at 1-1.
Israel continued to press in the second half and finally found the breakthrough in the 75th minute. Captain Eli Dasa, joining the attack from his full-back position, received a fantastic pass from Leeds United’s Manor Solomon, and drilled a low shot that beat Hein at the near post. It was a rare and timely goal from the veteran defender — his first in the national uniform, and on his 65th cap.
Eli Dasa scores his debut Israel National Team goal. An important one it was (Photo courtesy: Shaul Greenfeld)
Estonia’s hopes of a comeback were dashed in the 87th minute when Markus Soomets was sent off for a reckless challenge, reducing the visitors to ten men and easing the pressure on Israel in the final moments.
The night also marked a personal milestone for Estonian striker Henri Anier, who earned his 100th international cap—a notable achievement in an otherwise frustrating evening for his side.
With this win, Israel sits second in Group I behind Switzerland, who lead on goal difference. Estonia, still without a point, will look to regroup quickly.
Next up: Israel face a major test on Tuesday as they take on Norway, with politics are already making the atmosphere heated.
Tensions rise ahead of Israel vs. Norway as politics, security, and World Cup hopes collide in a charged qualifier on Tuesday.