Israel Coach Ben Shimon Slams Journalist Ejection

Israel national football team coach Ran Ben Shimon expressed strong disapproval of journalists Moti Pashketsky and Liat Bitan being barred from a press conference following the team's 1-1 draw against Ireland in the Nations League on Sunday. Ben Shimon, who appeared emotional after the match, stated, "It's very upsetting. I just heard about it, right now, so it's all fresh. That journalists are not allowed to do their job? Even people with whom I sometimes disagree I will do everything in my power to protect their rights. This is your job, this is your profession, and I think what happened here is very bad. Shame and disgrace."

Reflecting on the team's performance, Ben Shimon noted an improvement in discipline and organization compared to previous games, despite facing significant challenges. "I think we saw the team managed well in the previous games," he said. "The game against Austria started well and something went wrong there. We've talked enough about the second game. But against Kosovo and against Ireland today you were a very disciplined, very well-coached and good team, and certainly players who react to every situation. I am very proud of my players because we went through very complex things in recent days, both mentally and physically. Many players were sick and many injured, but whoever took the field today truly gave everything they had."

Ben Shimon explained the tactical choice of a 4-3-3 formation against Ireland's 5-2-3, aiming to keep the game close and secure a win in the second half. "We really wanted to win this game," he stated. "For the 4-3-3 formation, certainly against an opponent playing 5-2-3 with three dangerous players up front, there are prices. The game plan was to keep the game alive against Ireland, because they usually start very strong, and to win in the second half when the game opens up a bit. We created many chances and needed to win the game, but we gained other things here, not the victory."

Despite the draw, Ben Shimon took the emotional experience of the match and surrounding events "inwardly," acknowledging a personal cost to staying focused. He mentioned receiving significant support from his environment, which he found moving.