Israel National Football Team Prepares for Nations League Opener

The Israel national football team is holding a special, unscheduled training session focused entirely on set pieces ahead of their UEFA Nations League opener against Austria on Wednesday. This follows a similar emphasis on defensive drills for free kicks and corners during Tuesday's practice. Coach Ran Ben Shimon held an extensive team meeting on Tuesday, expressing strong confidence in his squad and the progress made over the past two years. "I believe so much in what we have done here in the last two years. We have built something beautiful here. A core of players that I believe in. I believe in each one of you," Ben Shimon told his players. He added, "We are here with the best staff Israeli football has. Whoever is not with us is not an excuse for what will be because I believe so much in you. I believe we can finish first in the Nations League in our group."

Ben Shimon further emphasized the team's determination to succeed despite any absences, stating, "We have a year and eight months to do something big and historic. We will not make excuses. We will not deal with who is missing. We believe in ourselves with all the limitations, we are convinced that we are the best team in the group and we will show it." The team's lineup for Wednesday's match is largely set, with Daniel Peretz in goal. The defense will feature Guy Mizerachi, Idan Nachmias, Nikita Stavrov, and Roy Revivo. Eliel Peretz, Dor Peretz, and Oscar Gloukh will play in midfield, with Anan Khalaili and Manor Solomon on the wings, and Sayed Abo Farchi leading the attack.