Israel National Football Team Eyes Euro 2028 Berth Amid Squad Uncertainty

The Israeli national football team is set to begin its qualification campaign for Euro 2028 with an away match against Austria on Thursday in Linz. Coach Ran Ben Shimon has largely settled on his starting lineup, with nine positions seemingly confirmed. Daniel Perez is expected to start in goal, protected by a defense of Nikita Stoyanov, Guy Mzrahi, and Roy Revivo. The midfield will likely feature Eliel Perez, Dor Peretz, Oscar Gloukh, Manor Solomon, and Anan Khalaili. The primary remaining question is the striker position, where Sayd Abu Farhi appears to have an edge over Tai Baribo and Dor Turgeman. Abu Farhi, who arrived early in Austria, has not been fasting during the Jewish holiday period.

Defensive options are being impacted by injuries to Stav Lemkin, Or Brielorian, and Itay Rotman, creating uncertainty at center-back. Idan Nahmias, who has recovered from an injury and trained fully, is a strong candidate to start alongside Stoyanov, with Raz Shlomo also in contention. An alternative formation involving three center-backs could see Khalaili shifted to right wing. Despite the challenges, the team is aiming to create a sense of home for the players, who will be away for an extended period, including two holidays. The squad includes a generation of "legionnaires" playing significant roles in European and American clubs.

Austria, Israel's opponent, is also undergoing changes, with key players like Marko Arnautovic, David Alaba, Xaver Schlager, and Konrad Laimer absent for various reasons. However, Austria is expected to maintain its characteristic intensity and style of play. The match is anticipated to draw a near-capacity crowd of over 50,000, including around 250 Israeli fans, with approximately 1,000 tickets remaining.

The team's ultimate goal is qualification for Euro 2028, a target that Coach Ben Shimon has openly stated. The upcoming four-game window represents a crucial test for the squad, which boasts considerable talent and experience. The historical encounters between Israel and Austria have been closely contested, adding another layer of significance to this opening match.