Israel Coach Ran Ben Shimon Prepares for Ireland Match

Ahead of Israel's Nations League match against Ireland on Sunday, head coach Ran Ben Shimon emphasized the need for his team to find internal energy and focus, given the likely smaller crowd.

Ben Shimon highlighted the importance of balancing ball possession with quick transitions, noting Ireland's strong aerial game and fast attackers. "We will need balance between moving the ball and exposure to transitions. We worked on that a lot," he stated, adding that the team has prepared for Ireland's long balls and quick forwards, identifying where to take risks and when it's acceptable to lose possession.

The coach discussed team selection, aiming for the most balanced and effective lineup to secure a win. "At any given moment, we are trying to think about the most balanced and best lineup we can put on the field to win the game," Ben Shimon explained. He expressed hope for an attacking, efficient, and defensively sound performance.

Addressing the anticipated atmosphere, Ben Shimon acknowledged the absence of a large home crowd, stating, "We are in a period where the energies need to come from within, there isn't a stadium of 30,000 people." He expressed gratitude for any supporters who attend, promising they will provide significant strength. "We will appreciate every single person who comes to watch the Israeli national team," he said.

Ben Shimon also spoke about the team's mentality, stressing the need for emotional play combined with strategic thinking. "We need to bring a lot of emotion but together with thought processes, to keep our heads. Our players already have this. The passion to win is very great," he added.

Finally, he identified Ireland's key attacking threats, Azaz and Obafemi, as the primary drivers of their counter-attacks. "Azaz and Obafemi create all of Ireland's breakaways, they build them on them. We will need to prepare for that well," Ben Shimon concluded, acknowledging Azaz's Jewish roots and past visits to Israel while noting he plays for the opposing team.