Israel Draws With Ireland, Coach Ben Shimon Praises Team's Resilience

The Israeli national football team concluded its September-October window with a 1-1 draw against Ireland, earning two points but leaving with a sense of missed opportunity. Coach Ran Ben Shimon expressed pride in his team's performance, particularly in the second half, highlighting their tactical discipline and numerous scoring chances. He noted the significant challenges the team faced in the preceding days, including widespread illness and injuries, which he felt they overcame admirably.

Despite the draw, Ben Shimon believes the team deserved to win, contrasting their attacking play with Ireland's reliance on set pieces. He acknowledged the team's difficult schedule, playing six away games, and stated that the team has regained its self-belief and will approach future matches with renewed confidence. He also addressed potential criticism, stating the team would accept it positively and emphasized the strong mutual trust within the squad.

Player Oscar Gloukh echoed the coach's sentiments, expressing pride in his teammates' effort and belief that they were the more dangerous side and deserved a victory. He stressed the importance of carrying this mentality into upcoming games against tough, evenly matched opponents. Gloukh also spoke about his personal commitment to the team, regardless of his playing time, and downplayed any external distractions, focusing on the team's internal motivation and unity.

Goal scorer Dor Peretz shared his satisfaction with his goal, which leveled the score, and praised the team's "wonderful football" in the second half, characterized by desire and passion. He dedicated his goal celebration, which included a black armband, to the victims of the October 7th attacks, calling it a small gesture of remembrance for the "heroes and angels." Peretz hopes the team's performance has restored a sense of security and pride for the public.

Ben Shimon also commented on the team's recovery from a recent difficult loss, emphasizing their ability to bounce back. He acknowledged that the two points from the window were insufficient in a challenging group but stressed the positive aspects and the team's resilience. The team's performance, he stated, has helped restore confidence and pride, which they will carry forward.