Israeli Football Coach Ran Ben Shimon Under Fire After Humiliating Loss

Following a deeply disappointing performance by the Israeli national football team, coach Ran Ben Shimon is facing intense criticism and calls for his resignation. The team suffered what is being described as the most humiliating loss in the history of Israeli football, with former national coach Shlomo Sharf labeling the evening "a night that disgraced an entire nation." The article argues that Ben Shimon was ill-suited for the role from the outset, citing his past failures with major Israeli clubs like Maccabi Tel Aviv, Hapoel Tel Aviv, and Beitar Jerusalem, as well as his inability to succeed with the Cyprus national team.

Critics contend that Ben Shimon has systematically dismantled a talented generation of players, making poor substitutions and incorrect team selections. The article quotes Shlomo Sharf, a highly respected former national coach, who expressed profound disappointment and sadness over the team's performance, particularly given the match's significance against perceived enemies of the Jewish people. Sharf stated that Ben Shimon "must go home immediately" and that the coaching role appears to be beyond his capabilities, pointing to his poor body language and decision-making during the game.

Sharf also questioned specific player selections, arguing that Dor Peretz, whom he considers the best Israeli player, should not have been left out of the lineup. He further criticized the inclusion of players like Yarden Shua and Eli Dasa, who are not regular starters for their clubs, and questioned the team's selection process, likening it to a "summer camp" due to players being invited despite not playing or being injured, and one player missing due to a family wedding.

The article concludes by emphasizing the national humiliation felt after the loss and reiterates the urgent need for Ben Shimon's replacement, suggesting that the team might be better off without a coach than with the current one. It calls for Ben Shimon to resign voluntarily before the next match, and for potential replacements like Boni Ginzburg and Ofir Haim to be considered.