The International break saw five Maccabi Tel Aviv players called up for Israel as they face Albania on Matchday Four of 2018 World Cup Qualifying with the hope of returning home with a good result.
Eitan Tibi spoke to the Official Website prior to the match and discussed the security issues surrounding the game: “Everything’s ok as there is a large security detail going with us to Albania. Of course it’s difficult not to think about it but we are on a mission and that is to play a match and come away with a good result. That should be the only thing that is in our heads and a good result in my opinion is to win the game.”
On Dor Micha joining the rest of the Maccabi players with Israel:
“Maccabi has been sending many players to the National Team over the past few years and I’m happy that Dor was able to be part of the squad. He certainly deserves to be here.”
About the opponent:
“We will be playing against a fit and well trained side that is very physical and I’m sure we will see that on the pitch. We have to be ready for what they have to offer but we also need to know how to execute our game plan as well.”
Transitioning from Maccabi to the National Team:
“I feel that I’m in good shape and I am already very experienced in making the switch between Maccabi and the National Team. Every match is different as well as Maccabi and the National Team. We didn’t forget about the Maccabi Petach Tikva match but we also know how to put it aside and prepare properly for Albania.”
