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    • Maccabi Tel Aviv to play France after Amsterdam attack – Israel Sports
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    Maccabi Tel Aviv to play France after Amsterdam attack – Israel Sports

    Umito Posted on

    THE Israel national team will face France in Paris on Thursday evening and in Belgium on Sunday in their final two matches of the Nations League campaign.

    To date, Ran Ben Shimon’s side have struggled against some of the best teams not only in Europe but around the world as the blue and white look to secure their first points in Group 2 of the League A Nations.

    Israel will play in the world spotlight after attacks on Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters last week after the Europa League match against Ajax in Amsterdam. A strong police presence will accompany the team and patrol both the city of Paris and the Stade de France in Saint-Denis. THE National Security Council of Israel advised fans not to attend the match due to ongoing threats of copycat attacks in France, Belgium and major cities in Britain.

    Before heading to Paris, Ben Shimon spoke about his list, the challenges ahead, the security situation and the brutal attack in Amsterdam.

    “The horrific events in Amsterdam were unimaginable. These were very difficult times to live through and, like everything we have experienced over the past year, nothing surprises me anymore. We are a strong nation and we will overcome it,” said Ben Shimon.

    Israeli supporters of Maccabi Tel Aviv demonstrate and light flares as a police officer patrols the neighborhood in Amsterdam, Netherlands, November 7, 2024, in this screenshot obtained from video on social networks. (credit: Michel Van Bergen/via REUTERS)

    He continued: “Even traveling in France I feel quite safe. We are always accompanied by large security forces, and they are extraordinary people. Right now, I’m more concerned about France’s attack on the pitch than anything that could happen off it. I feel very safe walking around with the Israel national team logo. We hope everything goes well.

    Speaking to fans planning to attend despite warnings, Ben Shimon shared his perspective.

    “One of the most amazing aspects of the Israel national team is our incredible fans. On the other hand, these are human lives, and any instructions from the National Security Council or other agencies must be followed. But ultimately, it’s not up to me.

    He added: “I was at the Olympics this summer in France and saw the large Jewish community and Israeli fans. It really warmed my heart. But the most important thing is the safety of the supporters. »

    French President Macron could attend the match

    “It’s a great honor that the French president can come and watch the match,” said Ben Shimon. “We hope he makes better decisions regarding Israel in the future.” For us, it’s about focusing on the field and representing the State of Israel with pride.”

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    Ben Shimon has worked diligently with the team over the past few months to find the right combination of players ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifying matches, which begin in early 2025. He used the Nations League group stage as a testing ground to achieve this goal.

    The coach made some changes from previous windows, recalling injured players such as Bayern Munich goalkeeper Daniel Peretz and Leeds United midfielder Manor Solomon. It also introduced new faces like Nikita Stoyanov and Yarden Shua, while recalling Dia Saba, Roie Mishpati and Dean David. They will join key players including Liel Abada, Oscar Gloukh, Dor Peretz and captain Eli Dasa, who missed the last window due to injury.

    Ben Shimon, who has yet to score a point in the campaign, is focused on this goal.

    “We would really like to score some points this window. But sometimes, even without points, you gain something valuable from these games. It was clear to us that this group would be a challenge, but I am confident that we are building something meaningful for the future.

    He added: “We scored in all four games so we played offensively rather than too defensively. Before each window, I take a good look at the team and select players who will contribute – not necessarily just the best players, but those who will fit in well with the team. The players here are the most important and they are ready for this battle – a sporting battle, because the real battle is fought by our heroic soldiers.

    This window includes a mix of new and returning players. Ben Shimon commented on some specific selections.

    “In the last window there was a mistake in not calling Dean David, but he is here now because he deserves it because of his fitness. The number of minutes he plays was not a factor in the decision.

    “Dia Saba is in excellent form in the Israeli championship. One of our goals for the Nations League is to find players who can help us on the road, and we have done that.

    Calling up Yarden Shua for the first time, Ben Shimon said: “Yarden is in good shape and worthy of the national team. He was thrilled to be called, and that’s how it should be.

    With no natural left back in the team, Ben Shimon will have to get creative with his lineup.

    “Sean Goldberg can play left-back, and we have quick full-backs who can adapt. There are solutions within the team,” he said.

    Bayern Munich’s Peretz, returning from injury, was another key player.

    “Daniel Peretz plays for one of the biggest clubs in the world. He is currently our first-choice goalkeeper, but we also have some excellent options at the position, including Sherif Kayuf and Omri Glazer.

    Solomon returns after a year of injuries, while Gloukh is back for his third consecutive window. Ben Shimon praised their efforts.

    “Manor is working hard to get back into the team, and I see him as being part of this team for the long term. Oscar has been incredible in the last window and I am very happy with his progress.

    Finally, Ben Shimon discussed the overall growth of the team.

    “This team is capable of winning more than one point. From the start we knew this group would be difficult, but we aim to build something strong for the future. I like the attitude of the players and what they have achieved so far. I gained valuable knowledge that will help us move forward.



    Umito
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