Israel Coach Ben Shimon Claims Team Deserved More Than Draw

The Israeli national football team secured its first point in the UEFA Nations League campaign with a 0-0 draw against Kosovo on Thursday in Debrecen. Despite dominating large portions of the match, Israel failed to convert their chances. Coach Ran Ben Shimon expressed that the team deserved more than a draw, stating, "We had four chances to score, it's a shame we missed them. We deserved even more than a draw today." He acknowledged the team's defensive efforts, which he felt may have impacted their attacking focus, but praised their response to difficult circumstances. Ben Shimon emphasized the importance of showing character and building confidence for the upcoming match against Ireland, declaring, "We have exhausted the excuses. We need to come to the game against Ireland and make all those who were disappointed proud of us."

The coach also commented on goalkeeper Assaf Tzur, who started in place of the absent Omri Glazer and Daniel Peretz. Ben Shimon described Tzur as a "real experience" both as a player and a person, and expressed confidence in him starting the match despite the unavailability of the other goalkeepers due to injury and illness.