Israel Football Association Demands Coach's Firing After Humiliating Loss

Senior figures within the Israel Football Association and its Professional Committee are calling for the immediate dismissal of national team coach Ran Ben Shimon following a devastating 3-0 defeat to Ireland in the UEFA Nations League. The team is expected to return to Israel on Monday, and the association aims to appoint a new coach before the Euro 2025 qualifiers begin in March.

The team's collapse in Debrecen, where they conceded three goals in 11 minutes during the first half, was described as a "national humiliation" by officials, particularly given prior hostile statements from the Irish side. This loss, against what is considered a mediocre Irish team, follows a weak World Cup qualifying campaign where the Israeli defense conceded 17 goals.

"Our expectation was that Ben Shimon himself would announce his resignation," a senior official from the Professional Committee stated. "Against Ireland, it wasn't just a sporting defeat, it was a humiliation for every Israeli and Jew after what the Irish said about us. The approach under Ben Shimon is poor, this is a very weak team."

Ben Shimon, who was appointed as a default choice after Barak Bakhar declined the position, expressed confidence in his relationship with the management. However, the severe professional criticism is compounded by financial considerations. Ben Shimon's contract, supported by Association Chairman Shino Zuarz and his deputy Moran Meiri, is set to run until the end of the Euro campaign, with his salary for 2025 amounting to approximately 2.2 million shekels.

As pressure mounts, the association's leadership faces a critical decision: continue the expensive contract or make an immediate change on the sidelines.