Israel National Football Team Faces Major Squad Overhaul After Losses

The Israeli national football team is preparing for a critical match against Kosovo on Thursday, aiming to recover from a significant 3-0 defeat to Ireland in the UEFA Nations League. Following a tense period, the coaching staff is considering a "revolution" in the starting lineup, with potentially half the team being replaced. Coach Ran Ben Shimon intends to use upcoming training sessions to evaluate numerous changes, emphasizing the need for a strong professional and mental response from his players, not just superficial adjustments.

After consecutive losses to Austria and Ireland, the Kosovo game holds considerable importance. Dor Peretz is expected to return to the starting eleven, while Eli Dasa, Ilai Feingold, and Eitan Azoulay are also in contention for starting spots. The coaching staff is re-evaluating nearly every position. Upfront, Tai Baribo, who recovered from an injury, is a candidate to start. Ben Shimon will make final decisions based on training and player fitness, with few players guaranteed a starting position.

Football Association Chairman Shino Zuarz directly addressed the players, stressing that responsibility for the team's struggles lies not only with coach Ben Shimon but also with the players themselves. He called for a significant change in attitude and commitment, particularly noting the team's failure to match Ireland's aggression and pressure from the outset. Zuarz expects a completely different team performance against Kosovo in terms of energy, fight, and determination.

Despite harsh criticism following the two losses, Ben Shimon retains the support of Zuarz and Vice Chairman Moran Meiri, with no immediate plans to replace him. Ben Shimon has analyzed the Ireland loss with the players, deeming the in-game collapse unacceptable and believing the squad's quality is higher than demonstrated. Much of the upcoming work will focus on the mental aspect, with smaller group discussions planned to convey targeted messages.

Idan Toklomati is doubtful for the Kosovo match due to a knee injury sustained against Ireland. Conversely, Said Abu Farhi returns after serving a suspension for a red card against Austria, providing another attacking option, especially if Toklomati is unavailable. Ben Shimon must decide whether to start Abu Farhi or use him as a substitute.

The team returns to training with an emphasis on avoiding further mistakes. The goal is to present a more aggressive, committed team that can regain confidence. The upcoming match is a significant test of character for both Ben Shimon and the players, with the coach facing tough decisions about squad changes and the team's overall response to pressure and criticism.