Israel Goalkeeper Daniel Peretz Calls Protesters 'Ignorant'

Israeli national football team goalkeeper Daniel Peretz apologized for the team's disappointing 3-0 loss to Ireland in the Nations League, particularly a dismal first half where they conceded three goals within 25 minutes. Peretz expressed shame over the team's performance, stating it wasn't due to a lack of desire or preparation, but possibly an excess of emotion that led to a loss of focus.

"We take responsibility, we don't hide," Peretz told Sport 5. "The feeling after the first half is something I never want to forget. It's easy to get down, to feel sorry for ourselves, but that's not us. We apologize to the entire nation that was disappointed today, but I promise everyone that in the next game against them in a week, things will not look like this."

Peretz recounted a comeback from 3-0 down at halftime during his club career, emphasizing the team's resolve to not lose the second half. He praised his teammates for their effort in the second 45 minutes, despite the overall loss, noting their fight until the 92nd minute.

When asked about protests by Irish individuals before and during the match, Peretz attributed them to ignorance. "There are those who wanted to, who came and asked, they understand the situation. Whoever doesn't want to and isn't interested, and it's very easy for them to express an opinion, that's their right. There's no need to get angry about it, these are ignorant people," he stated. Peretz concluded that the team's primary issue during the game was a lack of focus on football, which is essential for victory.