Israel Coach Considers Major Lineup Changes for Kosovo Match

Following a significant 3-0 defeat to Ireland in the UEFA Nations League, Israel's national team coach Ran Ben Shimon is contemplating a major overhaul of the squad for their upcoming "home" match against Kosovo. The game is scheduled for Thursday at 21:45 in Debrecen, Hungary, as Israel currently lacks a suitable venue.

One key consideration is the potential return of captain Eli Dasa, who has not played competitively in five months since the end of the Dutch league season. If Dasa starts, Guy Mzerahi would likely be moved to the bench. Ben Shimon is also exploring the possibility of Anan Khalaili playing as a right-back.

Dor Peretz is expected to feature in the starting lineup after an impressive second-half performance against Ireland. Thai Abed is slated to start as the striker, marking the third different forward to begin a match in the current campaign, following Sayed Abu Farchi and Dor Turgeman. Idan Nahmias is also anticipated to return to the defense, replacing Raz Shlomo, who had a weak showing against Ireland. Eitan Azulai is another player in contention for a starting spot.

Israel currently sits at the bottom of Group 7 in League B of the Nations League, having lost both of their opening matches. They were defeated 3-1 by Austria away in their first game and then suffered the 3-0 loss to Ireland in Debrecen.