Israeli Sports Journalist Recalls Historic 1993 World Cup Qualifier Win Over France
Translated & summarized from Ice by baba
Sports journalist Moshe Primo recalled Israel's historic 3-2 victory over France in a 1993 World Cup qualifier, marking its 33rd anniversary. The dramatic win, featuring late goals by Eyal Berkovich and Reuven Atar, secured a famous upset against a French team with stars like Eric Cantona. The match is remembered for the iconic commentary of Meir Einstein and Avi Ratzon, and remains a significant shared memory for Israelis.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Moshe Primo recalled Israel's 3-2 upset win over France in a 1993 World Cup qualifier on its 33rd anniversary.
- The victory, achieved with late goals from Eyal Berkovich and Reuven Atar, secured Israel a famous win.
- The French team featured stars such as Eric Cantona, Jean-Pierre Papin, and Laurent Blanc.
- The match is remembered for commentator Meir Einstein's excited reaction and Avi Ratzon's "Meir, calm down."
- The win remains a significant shared memory of joy and emotion for the Israeli public.
- Shlomo Sharf coached the Israeli team, while Ronen Harazi scored an early goal.
Sports journalist and commentator Moshe Primo has reminisced about Israel's dramatic 3-2 victory over France in a 1993 World Cup qualifier, an event he marked as occurring exactly 33 years prior on October 13th. Primo, a veteran broadcaster known for shows like "Shirim VeSha'arim" and "Yatza Ha'itonut," shared a nostalgic post recalling the national significance of the match.
The game, played at the Parc des Princes in Paris, saw Israel, coached by Shlomo Sharf, face a formidable French team featuring stars such as Eric Cantona, Jean-Pierre Papin, and Laurent Blanc. France needed only a draw to secure qualification for the USA World Cup. Despite an early goal by Israel's Ronen Harazi, the hosts took a 2-1 lead and appeared headed for victory.
However, the final minutes brought a stunning reversal. Eyal Berkovich equalized in the 83rd minute, and in stoppage time, Reuven Atar scored the winning goal with a powerful shot, securing the 3-2 upset. This victory is etched in Israeli collective memory, often associated with the legendary broadcaster Meir Einstein's excited reaction and commentator Avi Ratzon's famous plea, "Meir, calm down," which became an iconic Israeli phrase.
Primo's post highlights that the win transcends sports history, remaining a shared national memory for Israelis, a moment of sudden joy and emotion that continues to resonate 33 years later.