Israel National Football Team Aims for Top Two in Nations League
Ran Ben Simon, the Israeli national football team coach, has officially launched the team's UEFA Nations League campaign, setting a clear objective to compete for the top two spots in their group. Speaking at a press conference, Ben Simon addressed his squad selection, the absence of key players like Dia Saba, and the challenges of an unusual schedule featuring four matches in under two weeks.
Ben Simon acknowledged the complexity of the current international window, noting the long team gathering and individual player circumstances, including religious observances like Yom Kippur. He emphasized the team's connection to tradition, stating, "We have our 'rabbinical council' in the national team, who ensure we observe Yom Kippur properly. We are taking a Torah scroll and even a Sukkah with us. We are all connected to tradition." He also stressed respect for all faiths within the diverse squad, calling the team "the melting pot of Israel."
Regarding the team's aspirations, Ben Simon highlighted the Nations League's importance for potential Euro qualification and improved seeding in future draws. "We want to be results-oriented," he stated. While missing the home crowd's atmosphere, he expressed confidence in the team's ability to contend for the top two positions in their group, stating, "In this group, Israel can compete for the top two spots."
The coach detailed the extensive preparation for each player, including performance analysis and managing player energy over the demanding 17-day period. He addressed defensive selections, calling the current center-backs "the best in the squad" despite some absences. Ben Simon also explained the call-up of Eli Dasa, who is currently without a club, citing his proven ability to perform in national team matches and his intensive training regimen.
Ben Simon elaborated on Dia Saba's exclusion, explaining it was a professional decision based on a player's complete readiness and contribution to the team's overall goals, not solely on playing form. He maintained an open door for Saba's future inclusion. The coach also touched upon the absences of other players due to personal reasons, such as weddings and family events, expressing full support for their decisions.
