When it went up to Tier A in the UEFA Nations League, the Israeli national team knew that a particularly difficult draw awaited them. But it is doubtful that they expected that either and yesterday (Thursday) they received the most difficult draw in Group 2 with Italy, Belgium and France.
These are three of the strongest national teams in the world, which Israel has already met in recent decades. When Italy of course won the last Euro, Belgium was ranked number one in the FIFA rankings for many years, and despite the end of the golden age it is still a quality team, and France won the 2018 World Cup and reached the final in 2022.
It should be noted that it is still unclear whether the games will be held in Israel, given the security situation. All the international games were moved from Israel following the war, and this is still subject to UEFA’s decision when and if the games can be held in Israel.
This morning (Friday) the dates for the six games were published, the full list is in front of you>>>
The full list of dates:
Belgium – Israel – 6.9, 21:45
Israel – Italy – 9.9, 21:45
Israel – France – 10.10, 21:45
Italy – Israel – 14.10, 21:45
France – Israel – 14.11, 21:45
Israel – Belgium – 17.11, 21:45
The Nations League tournament will also have an impact on the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The 4 leaders of the houses with the highest ranking among the teams that did not directly qualify for the qualifying tournament will join the 12 teams that finish second in the qualifying stage and will be drawn to the playoffs from which 4 more teams will go to the World Cup that will be held in Canada, Mexico and the USA.
???? Everyone to open diaries ❗
Come on???????? save the dates???? pic.twitter.com/Sh6Y8GiquG— ISRAEL FA (@ISRAELFA) February 9, 2024