Israel Sets Sights on Historic Euro Qualification Ahead of Austria Clash
Israel national team coach Ran Ben Shimon and FA Chairman Shino Zuares rallied the squad ahead of their UEFA Nations League opener against Austria in Linz, setting a historic target of reaching the European Championship.
Israel Prepares for UEFA Nations League Clash Against Austria
"We need to finish in first place in our group in the Nations League. We are the best team in the group, with all due respect to Austria, Ireland, or Kosovo," stated Israel national team coach Ran Ben Shimon ahead of the crucial campaign opener against Austria in Linz.
Speaking at the final training session, Ben Shimon expressed full confidence in his squad, outlining a clear objective to reach the European Championship. The training session also integrated players arriving directly from the MLS, though only Said Abu Farhi is expected to start after arriving in Austria early.
"We are entering the decisive stage with the goal of doing something historic — to be the first Israeli national team at the Euros. I believe in the path we have taken together over the past two years," said Ben Shimon.
Motivational Speeches and Squad Lineup
FA Chairman Shino Zuares also addressed the players, emphasizing the historic magnitude of the upcoming campaign. Alongside vice-chairman Moran Mair, Zuares visited the family home of former coach Willi Ruttensteiner before joining the team.
"All of us have mobilized to reach Euro 2028, this is our life's mission and everything depends only on you," Zuares told the players. "You are the generation that will take Israel to the Euros for the first time."
Ben Shimon finalized his starting lineup without major doubts, featuring seven legionnaires: goalkeeper Daniel Peretz, Nikita Stoyanov, Roy Revivo, Oscar Gloukh, Manor Solomon, Anan Khalaili, and Said Abu Farhi. They will be joined by four Israeli Premier League players: Eliel Peretz, Guy Mizrahi, and Idan Nachmias from Hapoel Beer Sheva, alongside Dor Peretz from Maccabi Tel Aviv. Manor Solomon will wear the captain's armband.
Ahead of Sunday's match against Ireland, the team management is working to keep players focused entirely on athletic goals despite external political questions raised during the press conference.
