Herzog upbeat despite Nations League exit

FOOTBALL ANDI Herzog insists Israel’s run in the Nations League has helped restore some pride, but they missed out on a place in the play-offs after going down 3-2 to Scotland in Glasgow.

Needing only a draw to win the group, Israel pushed hard to draw level in the driving rain at Hampden Park but they were unable to conjure a late equaliser, ultimately finishing second in the threeteam group, behind Scotland but ahead of Albania, who were relegated.

Herzog said: “I think this campaign has restored the team’s belief in itself and that it can win. The victories at home were great and lifted the morale of the team.”

It started so well for Israel, with Brighton midfielder Beram Kayal putting the visitors ahead with a superb swerving shot into the top corner from 25 yards.

Slowly the Scots took control and James Forrest lashed home an equaliser from 15 yards after 34 minutes. Scotland finished the half strongly, scoring either side of half-time through pint-sized Celtic striker Forrest. James Forrest and Taleb Tawatha

Israel continued to battle and a 75th minute effort from Eran Zahavi gave Israel a lifeline. Herzog introduced substitute Tomer Hemed for the final five minutes and the move almost paid off as the striker drew a fine reflex save from Allan McGregor to deny Israel a dramatic equaliser.

Herzog commented: “There were a few moments when we didn’t play as we would have wanted to and we also lacked that bit of luck towards the end when we might have equalised.

“As a manager, I was glad to see the team succeeded into transferring some of my ideas and that they worked, although it was not enough.”

Israel now await the draw for the Euro 2020 qualifiers on December 2 in which it will be seeded in Pot Three, the third tier of nations.