The Israel Under-21 side hosted Hungary in a 2017 UEFA European Championship qualifying match at the Moshava Stadium in Petach Tikva and picked up a big 3:0 win. Arik Benado’s team is currently in second place in group play and would advance to the playoffs from that position. Our representative, Dor Peretz played 90 minutes and spoke about the transition between the full Israel National Team and the U21 side, playing with various different players who wear Blue-and-White and their upcoming game on Tuesday against Portugal:
“It’s always a fun experience playing in a European competition and it doesn’t matter if it’s the National Team or club side. Being in such a nationalistic environment beings us a lot of pride to represent our country. I’m happy to be part of this.”
On playing with other Israeli players:
“On these types of teams you play with guys that you don’t normally play with on a day to day basis be it on the full National Team or on the Under-21 side. That’s fine because when we are together we get to know each other and learn how to play together. Slowly but surely we also see that on the pitch.”
About the upcoming match against first place side Portugal on Tuesday at the Moshava Stadium, 19:45:
“We played very well today and gave a good performance that I’m sure the fans will enjoy seeing going forward. I want to invite everyone to come see us play against Portugal this coming Tuesday.”
