Israel continues historic run at FIFA Under-20, advances to semi-finals – Israel

The Israel Under-20 squad stunned Brazil as the blue-and-white took a 3-2 win in extra-time to advance to the semifinals of the World Cup being held in Argentina. Dor Turgeman scored the winning goal with a fantastic individual effort in the area just prior to the end of the first half of overtime, while Anan Khalaili and Hamza Shibli also scored for Israel to comeback twice in regulation time.

Head coach Ofir Haim’s squad will now play the winner of the USA and Uruguay quarterfinal match in the semifinals on Thursday and will also take part in the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. 

“I want to send my condolences to those who lost loved ones and this win is for the entire country,” Ofir Haim began following the game. “We were the better team and we deserved to win, but things always have to be tough for us after we missed both penalties. We were so mentally strong and the players believe in one another. We have so much talent and quality but also a huge heart. We want to now go the finals.”

Dor Turgeman who scored the winning goal, spoke about the attack that took place on the Egyptian border: “We had a very tough day in the State of Israel and we want to dedicate this win to their families and to the entire country. We hope that this give them a bit of comfort. As for goal, I did what I needed to do with scoring that goal.”

Moshe “Shino” Zuaretz, the Israel Football Association Chairman also spoke about team’s win on a very difficult day for the nation, “On such a sad day where we lost three soldiers who were protecting all of us, the Israel National Team played against Brazil in the semifinals. With tremendous fight, amazing talent, unity and leadership, the blue-and-white made us all proud once again as their tears were for what was gained and what was lost on this day. Israel is now in the semifinals and this isn’t a dream but reality!”

Israelis celebrate the historic win

President Isaac Herzog congratulated the team on Saturday night, tweeting “An amazing game by our youth football team – what a huge victory! You bring us a lot of honor and pleasure these days with wonderful team play and true sportsmanship!”

“Dear Ofir, you united the whole nation for us just like you said. It was very very exciting, it’s amazing! Well done!” said Herzog in a conversation with the team after the match. “This also shows that Jews and Arabs know how to work together and live together – well done!”

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu welcomed the victory as well, writing “‘El El Israel! (a celebratory chant used in Israeli soccer) Our young team made history and brought huge pride to the State of Israel!”

Opposition leader Yair Lapid congratulated the team as well, writing “Respect to…