Israel Soccer Coach Prepares for Nations League Clash with Ireland

Israel national soccer team coach Ran Ben Shimon discussed his team's preparations for their upcoming UEFA Nations League match against Ireland, scheduled for Sunday. In an exclusive interview with Sport Channel, Ben Shimon emphasized the need for a balance between ball possession and quick transitions in play, a key area the team has been working on.

Ben Shimon highlighted the Irish team's direct style of play, characterized by long balls and fast forwards, particularly mentioning players like Finn Azaz and Chiedozie Ogbene as central to their counter-attacking strategy. "We will need balance between moving the ball and exposure to transitions. We worked on that a lot," Ben Shimon stated, adding that the team has prepared for all scenarios, including knowing when to take risks and when it's acceptable to lose possession.

Regarding team selection and strategy, the coach expressed his focus on fielding the most balanced and effective lineup to secure a win. "At any given moment, we are trying to think about what is the most balanced and best lineup we can put on to win the game," he said. He hopes the team will play attractive, attacking, and efficient football without leaving themselves overly exposed.

Addressing the expected atmosphere, Ben Shimon acknowledged the likely smaller crowd due to the current circumstances, but stressed the importance of internal energy and the significant support even a limited number of fans can provide. "We are in a period where the energies need to come from within, there isn't a stadium of 30,000 people. Even the few who come will give us a lot of strength," he noted, expressing appreciation for any fan support.

He concluded by reiterating the respect for Irish players like Azaz, who has Jewish roots and has celebrated holidays in Israel, but stressed that he is now an opponent on the field. "Azaz and Ogbene create all of Ireland's breakaways, they build them on them. We will need to prepare for that well," Ben Shimon said.