Israeli Goalkeeper Tom Amos Shines in Faroe Islands, Leads NSI Run to Conference League Third Round

Tom Amos, an Israeli-Swedish goalkeeper, has made a remarkable comeback in European football after a brief and uneventful stint with Hapoel Be'er Sheva in early 2023. Having left Be'er Sheva without playing a match and struggling to find his footing in Sweden's second division, Amos signed in early 2026 with NSI Runavik, a club from the Faroe Islands representing a town of just 500 residents. Despite the club's small size, Amos has been instrumental in their historic run to the third qualifying round of the UEFA Conference League.

NSI Runavik currently leads the Faroe Islands league and stunned European football by advancing past Maltese side Hamrun Spartans and then Slovene club Koper. After losing 2-0 away to Koper, Amos saved a penalty in the return leg and helped his team overturn the deficit, including saving three penalties in the shootout, one from former Atalanta and Fiorentina star Josip Iličić. The team now faces Swiss side Lugano, with the winner meeting the loser of Maccabi Tel Aviv vs. CSKA Sofia in the Europa League qualifiers.

Amos described the overwhelming support from the local community, including the town’s mayor, and expressed his dream of returning to play in Israel, particularly in Tel Aviv. He praised the quality of the Israeli league and his former Be'er Sheva teammate Omri, whom he called the best goalkeeper in Israel. Amos also reflected on the challenges of living in the Faroe Islands, including harsh weather, and revealed he is studying software alongside his football career.

He recounted the difficult experience of leaving Israel during the October 7, 2023, conflict, emphasizing the fear and chaos but also the support from Be'er Sheva in arranging safe passage. Despite the hardships, Amos remains hopeful about his career and future, open to returning to Israel where much of his family lives. His recent performances in Europe serve as a message to doubters and a testament to his resilience and talent.