Israeli Soccer Team Criticized for Poor Play and Squad Selections

The Israeli national soccer team is facing sharp criticism following a disappointing performance in its recent international window, securing only two points out of a possible twelve. Panelists on the "Tzion 3" program lambasted not only the team's on-field results under coach Ran Ben Shimon but also the professional conduct surrounding player selections and playing time.

Panelist Yonatan Nimrodi expressed strong disapproval of the squad, questioning the inclusion of players who have not been actively playing. He cited Eli Dasa, whom he admires personally, and questioned the lack of a backup left-back, suggesting Eyal Feingold, a good player, has never played the position. "There's no soccer here, my friend! There's no soccer here!" Nimrodi declared.

Nimrodi also criticized the distribution of minutes in the midfield, arguing that Yarin Levi should not receive playing time before Gabi Kanikovsky. He further questioned why Eitan Azulai was starting ahead of Kanikovsky, humorously suggesting that Azulai's father would pick Kanikovsky first. "It's a disgrace! I'm telling you, it's a joke!" Nimrodi exclaimed, calling the situation "a bluff."

Another panelist, Itzik Shasho, added that Eitan Azulai had scheduled his wedding during the national team's campaign, indicating his own lack of expectation to play. The discussion then shifted to the overall quality of Israeli players. Nimrodi used Troy Parrott as an example of a complete forward, contrasting him with Israeli players who he believes lack essential attributes. While Anan Khalaili was suggested as a potential complete player, Nimrodi and Shasho expressed reservations, comparing him to a past player, Rbibo. Nimrodi concluded by stating that Menor Solomon, despite being a likable person, is not a good enough player to help the team.