Israel Youth Soccer Team Secures Dramatic Win, Boosts Euro Qualifying Hopes

The Israeli youth national soccer team achieved a dramatic 3-2 victory over Slovenia on Tuesday, thanks to a winning goal in the 91st minute by Niv Yehoshua. This crucial win solidifies Israel's second-place position in their qualifying group, extending their lead over third-place Bosnia to three points.

Coach Guy Luzon described the match as a "rollercoaster," highlighting the team's resilience in coming back from behind in both their recent "must-win" games against the Netherlands and Slovenia. "I'm not satisfied. I'll only be satisfied when we qualify for the European Championship playoffs," Luzon stated, emphasizing the team's ambition to reach the tournament for the third time in history. He also noted the team's desire to lift spirits in Israel, expressing happiness that they succeeded in doing so.

Midfielder Ran Benjamin echoed the sentiment of a dramatic game, calling the win "life-giving" for their tournament aspirations. He acknowledged a shaky start and conceding an early goal but praised the team's commitment and comeback, culminating in Yehoshua's last-minute winner. Benjamin stressed that the team's fate is still in their own hands and expressed pride in the squad's perseverance.

Goal scorer Niv Yehoshua described the game as intense and difficult for both teams. Despite acknowledging that their overall performance wasn't stellar, he credited the team's character and fighting spirit for securing the win. Yehoshua emphasized the importance of the upcoming match against Norway, stating, "We must have the flag of Israel at the European Championship."