Israel National Football Team Eyes New Approach Ahead of Kosovo Clash

The Israel national football team is set to play Kosovo in Debrecen on Thursday, aiming to rebound from a disappointing 3-0 loss to Ireland. Hopes are high for a different performance, securing the team's first points in the current campaign and potentially challenging for second place in their group.

Head coach Ran Ben Shimon is keeping his tactical plans close to his chest, a departure from the previous two matches where the lineup and formation were clear. While the final training session will likely reveal more, several changes are expected, with some players who started against Austria and Ireland potentially benched. The team is considering a slightly more defensive setup to prevent early goals.

Annan Khalaily and Gabi Kaniovsky are likely to start on the bench, making way for Tai Bruchim or Dor Turgeman in attack, and Ilay Feingold or Eli Dasa in defense. It's also possible that Roy Revivo and Oscar Gloukh will not be in the starting lineup, which could see Liel Abada feature on the left wing. "Ran will only decide this evening," a source within the delegation stated, emphasizing the numerous options available.

The Israeli squad has been studying Kosovo's gameplay through video analysis, focusing on their recent win against Ireland and their loss to Austria. Players have also reviewed unedited footage to better understand their opponent's style.

To ease the pressure, the team held a bonding event, including a quiz about team members and staff, organized by Vice President Ronen Moscovitz. Players reported that this, along with a recent visit from their families, helped them relax after a difficult period. Daniel Peretz won the quiz and received a luxury iPad. Meanwhile, Idan Toklomati underwent an MRI for pain that worsened after a tackle against Ireland; he will continue treatment with a low chance of being fit for the next match against Ireland. Omri Gandelman, not fit to start, will be included in the squad and may get playing time.