OSLO -In a tense and emotional press conference ahead of Saturday's World Cup qualifier against Norway, Israeli national team head coach Ran Ben Shimon and captain Eli Dasa fielded questions that ranged from tactical matters to the broader political context surrounding the match.
Ben Shimon addressed the fact that the competing amid ongoing international scrutiny and calls for sanctions: "The coach's job is to keep motivation high. I feel I need to lower it—not because of the match, but because of the political situation in our country. We're athletes; I don't want anyone to drag us into politics."
The coach also spoke about the team's connection to events at home. "We live daily with what our people are going through," he said. "We want to build a team that emerges from what its people are enduring. We have to be responsible for the sporting side, but also try to bring them joy."
During the press conference, Ben Shimon made a notable gesture—pulling out a kippa, placing it on his head, and saying a prayer for the return of hostages and soldiers. Such displays of personal faith are uncommon in official FIFA press conferences.
Ben Shimon at the presser, with a Kippa. The first time an Israeli coach is appearing with a religious symbol in a World Cup Qualifier press conference. (Photo courtesy: Shaul Greenfeld/BabaGol)
Captain Eli Dasa responded to the political line of questioning by emphasizing his role as an athlete. "It seems like you're only interested in what's happening off the pitch, but I am a footballer," he said.
When asked about potential sanctions against Israel in international football, Dasa stated: "You can't ignore what's happening around us and the protests against us, but personally I had no doubt they would not expel us. Football shouldn't be involved in politics, no matter where. Once you suspend a team from tournaments, that's a mistake in my eyes."
He added: "I feel like here I am a politician from the government of Israel rather than a footballer who is supposed to play tomorrow against Norway… I'm proud to represent my country."
The press conference eventually returned to football. Dasa praised Martin Ødegaard as "an amazing and important player" and called Erling Haaland "the best forward in the world." Ben Shimon acknowledged the quality of Norway's squad, describing them as "a high-level national team," while adding, "we're also a good team."
The match takes place amid heightened attention, with the Israeli delegation navigating questions that extend well beyond the pitch.
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