Wizards of Bos
FOOTBALL Eli Guttman believes the feel-good-factor has returned to the Israel team following the 3-0 victory over Bosnia in their Euro 2016 qualifying campaign.
Strikes from Gil Vermouth, Omer Damari and Eran Zehavi lifted Israel to the top of Group B as they maintained a 100 per cent record with a third consecutive victory.
Guttman said: “I’m really proud of the team. The fans were fantastic as well, and the new stadium had a marvellous atmosphere.
“This match was a turning point for the national team because the fans have learned to love the team again.”
There were chances aplenty in a fast and furious first half, but once Vermouth netted, with a deflected strike past Asmir Begovic, Israel settled and when Damari registered his fifth goal of the qualifying campaign, seconds before half-time, the crowd at the Sammy Ofer Stadium in Haifa erupted.
Bosnia were reduced to 10 men early in the second half when Toni Sunjic hauled down Damari and Zehavi cemented the victory with a well-taken third 20 minutes from time.
Guttman praised the performance of playmaker Bebras Natcho, describring him as a “game-changer”. He said. “Natcho keeps coming at you from every angle. You could see he was doing everything and more. He was there for the nation.”
Israel captain Tal Ben Haim believes the decision to play the game in Haifa was key. He said: “You don’t feel the crowd in Ramat Gan, so moving to Haifa made a huge difference.
“I’ve been playing for the national team for 12 years and this is the first time we’ve had the kind of atmosphere that you need. It was electric with the fans behind us and going crazy for 90 minutes. I’m really proud to be captain of this team which is focused, committed, determined and prepared to fight.”
Damari, who is jointtop goal-scorer in the qualifiers alongside England’s Danny Welbeck, described the result as “one of Israel’s greatest victories”.
Defeat spelled the end of a five-year reign for Bosnia boss Safet Susic. He said: “Israel deserved the win. They outplayed us in midfield where we are strongest.
“They beat us in every aspect in the first half and the match was over after the red card.”
Israel now face the daunting prospect of a home double-header against Wales on March 28 followed by Belgium three days later, which Guttman describes as “criti
cal”. He said: “I believe we can succeed, but there is a long
way to go.”