Ofir Haim’s youth team is 90 minutes away from a historic qualifier for the European Under-19 Championship semi-finals, and moreover – to secure a ticket to the World Cup to be held next year in Indonesia.
After 2: 2 against Serbia in the opening round in which Israel suffered in extra time and an impressive 2: 4 over Austria in the second round, tonight (21:00, Sport 4) Israel will play against England, knowing that a victory against an opponent who has already reached the semifinals, a draw and a loss Of Serbia vs. Austria will be enough for her to grab one of the first two places at home that give place between the last four as well as the ticket to the World Cup. England have yet to absorb in the tournament and are coming off a 0-2 draw with Austria and a 4-4 win over Serbia, with four of the six goals scored by Chukwamka from Aston Villa and Dane Scarlett from Tottenham.
Haim continued with Tomer Tzarfati between the posts after his 2: 4 appearance over Austria and the place in the squad was also maintained by Thai Abed, who excelled in the victory and in the first game was not a partner at all. Of course, Oscar Gluch and Ariel Lugassi, who were replaced in the previous game for the purpose of resting, are also starting in the lineup. Down the bench is Ahmed Salman, who replaced Dor Turgeman, and another change is made in the center of defense when Sean Adri replaces Or Israelov.
On the eve of the final round of the home stage, England with 6 points, Israel with 4, Serbia with one point and Austria with 0. Since third place leads to a playoff game for the right to participate in the World Cup, the Austrians have something to play against Serbia. If Israel loses to England and at the same time Serbia wins, the goal difference will decide who will finish in second place, and currently Israel has a six-goal advantage over the Serbs (4: 6 vs. 6: 2). The second home games in the Euro are over and there France finished first and Italy second, and now they are waiting to find out who they will meet.
In the England squad one of the most intriguing names is 19-year-old Liam Delap, who belongs to Manchester City and is Rory’s son. Karni Chukwamka, 18, from Aston Villa, is also considered a great talent and has already made 14 appearances for the team.
Israel Composition: Tomer Tzarfati, Tomer Ili, Stav Lemkin, Sean Edri, El Yam Kanchpolsky, Ili Madmon, Dor Turgeman, Oscar Gluch, Ariel Lugsi, Roy Revivo, Thai Abed.
England composition: Teddy Sherman Lowe, Rooney Edwards, Jarl Kwanesa, Alfie Devin, Karni Chukwamka, Daniel Auguka, Alex Scott, Luke Chambers, Bashir Humphries, Samuel Ealing Jr., Liam Dlap.