The Israel National Team is nearing the end of its UEFA Nations League campaign, with just two matches remaining in the group stage.
Ran Ben Shimon’s side, which has collected just two points from its first four games, will face Kosovo on Saturday before taking on Austria three days later, hoping to finish the campaign on a positive note.
With Israel already facing an uphill battle in the group, the two upcoming matches will offer a chance to restore pride, build momentum and show progress ahead of future international competitions. Ben Shimon, who remains confident that his team can eventually qualify for Euro 2028, addressed the media on Thursday ahead of the upcoming fixtures.
“We’re heading into two very important games in terms of points, but I also want to see the team play well, with purpose and a genuine belief that we can win both matches,” the coach explained.
Ben Shimon also discussed the lessons learned from the previous international window, acknowledging that there is plenty to analyze regarding the team’s performances, tactical approach and overall direction. However, he indicated that a comprehensive assessment would come after the campaign concludes.
'Remain focused on the important things'
“I’ve become increasingly convinced that I need to remain focused on the important things. I will continue to look at the positives, remain optimistic and believe in my national team,” he said.
Despite Israel’s disappointing results so far, Ben Shimon remains ambitious about the future and believes the current generation can accomplish something special.
“This generation is in my hands and on my shoulders, and I believe this national team will qualify for Euro 2028. I believe in my players and in the people representing Israel, and we will continue to do everything we can. I won’t carry the failures of previous generations on my shoulders. I take responsibility for this generation, and I believe we will achieve our goals.”
The first challenge will come against Kosovo, a team Ben Shimon considers particularly strong and talented. Israel will also have to contend with potentially difficult weather and playing conditions in Pristina. The coaching staff has therefore decided to prepare in Israel before traveling two days ahead of the match.
“Our professional preparations include being ready for a poor playing surface, as well as facing a team that is very clear in the way it plays and one that I consider very strong and talented,” Ben Shimon explained. “Nothing has been overlooked in our discussions. There is also rain at this time of year, which is another reason we felt it was better to prepare in Israel.”
The coach also emphasized the importance of Israel’s mental preparation, particularly following some difficult moments during the previous international window.
“From the moment we first came together with the national team, this has been the most important thing in the world. But there is a difference between everyone talking about it, understanding its importance, and actually implementing it consistently at the highest level. That takes work. I think the team is making that journey and becoming stronger each time, although there are setbacks along the way.”
Team missing several key players
Israel will have to manage several absences, including that of Eliel Peretz, whom Ben Shimon described as an extremely important player for the national team. Mohammed Abu Fani was also left out of the squad, although the coach stressed that the midfielder remains an option for future call-ups.
“Anyone who wants to understand how important Eliel is to the Israel national team should simply look back. There is no need to say anything more. He is an important player for Israel. But Plan A doesn’t interest anyone. There are complications, but we also have solutions and good players available. We will take the field with a good lineup and players I trust,” he said.
An interesting decision for Ben Shimon will be choosing his starting goalkeeper, with three players currently competing for the position. The coach admitted it is a genuine dilemma, but one he is pleased to have, given the quality of the available options.
“As we speak, we have three outstanding goalkeepers. There are other considerations that come into play, including their professional and medical situations at the time.”
Despite the disappointing position in the standings, Ben Shimon is determined to see Israel finish the campaign strongly. The national team originally set its sights on securing one of the top two positions in the group, but things have not gone according to plan.
“I believed we would finish in first or second place and that’s still how I approach things. I always want the best, but things didn’t go according to plan along the way.”
With Kosovo and Austria ahead, Israel has two chances to show that the progress Ben Shimon believes is being made can translate into results on the pitch. The coach has made it clear that he continues to believe in his players and the direction of the national team. Now, he will look to his squad to deliver.
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