For decades, Israeli football has lived in the shadows of Europe’s great nations. But in recent years, a new golden generation has emerged—one that is not only matching the continent’s giants but, in some cases, overwhelming them. With qualification for the 2052 European Championship all but secured, Israel’s rise is being driven by a blend of fearless youth and established leaders who are redefining the nation’s footballing identity.
At the heart of this revolution is Netanel Sahar, a striker whose relentless work rate and eye for goal have made him indispensable. The 22-year-old, currently on loan at RB Leipzig, has seamlessly taken on the role of Israel’s spearhead. His intelligence off the ball and clinical finishing have made him a nightmare for defenders, and his performances in qualifying underline his importance to the side. Against Austria, Sahar’s two goals showcased not just composure but a striker’s instinct for timing and positioning.
But Israel’s story cannot be told through one player alone. Alongside Sahar is Shon Mishpati, the dynamic winger whose explosive pace and creativity stretch defenses wide open. Currently with Queens Park Rangers, Mishpati represents the bold, attacking flair that has come to define this Israeli side. His ability to drift inside and link with teammates has turned him into a key weapon, often the spark in Israel’s most dangerous moves.
Completing the attacking trident is Dovev Guma, a wide forward with an unerring ability to arrive at the right place at the right time. His brace in the friendly against Turkey was a statement: Israel is no longer relying on moments of inspiration but building consistent threats across the pitch.
Behind them, Abdallah Falah has emerged as the midfield orchestrator. Calm in possession and decisive in distribution, he bridges defense and attack with a maturity beyond his years. Alongside him, Assaf Kabilo has added drive and directness, often surging into the box to provide the extra man in attack, as seen in the emphatic 5–0 win over Austria.
Defensively, captain Moshe Lazarovich has been the backbone. A goalkeeper whose command of the box and ability to launch counter-attacks with precise distribution provide a foundation for everything Israel does. Around him, young defenders like Tom Eliyahu, Adi Calamaro, and Younes Mahamid are forging a backline that is both disciplined and daring.
This is a team that plays with confidence, unity, and a refusal to be intimidated. The results speak for themselves: 6–1 against North Macedonia, 5–0 over Austria, and a fearless 2–1 triumph against Portugal. Israel sits top of Group B, their passage to the Euros already confirmed, but the manner of qualification is what is drawing attention across Europe.
The comparisons to past Israeli teams are inevitable, but this squad has something different—depth, balance, and a belief that they can go toe-to-toe with the very best. Much like the golden eras of Brazil, where stars like Pelé, Ronaldinho, and Ronaldo thrived together, Israel now boasts a constellation of talent capable of lighting up the international stage.
As the European Championship approaches, the question is no longer whether Israel belongs at this level. It is how far this fearless new generation—led by Sahar, Mishpati, and their teammates—can go. For a nation long dreaming of footballing respect, the dream may be turning into a golden reality.