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Israel Coach Focuses on Football Amid Tensions Ahead of France Match

Posted : 14 November 2024

Israel coach Ran Ben Shimon emphasized the importance of focusing on football despite the challenging context surrounding his team’s Nations League match against France at the Stade de France. With tensions high due to recent violence in Amsterdam, where Israeli fans were attacked during a Maccabi Tel Aviv match, Ben Shimon stated he wanted to separate the off-pitch difficulties from the game. "It’s very difficult to hear so much bad news coming out of Israel, and it affects us," he said, but reiterated his commitment to leading his team through the match to offer a sense of relief and normalcy.

 

The context of the match has been complicated by ongoing political tensions, particularly regarding Israel's actions in Gaza, which have fueled unrest in France, home to a large Jewish and Muslim population. Following last week’s violent incidents in Amsterdam, which saw Israeli fans involved in clashes, Israel has advised its citizens against attending international events.

 

Despite these challenges, Ben Shimon remained focused on his team’s performance, stating that the attendance, whether 15,000 or 25,000 spectators, would not impact how Israel approaches the game. He expressed hope that Israeli fans attending would find enjoyment and a sense of hope, while ensuring their safety.

 

The match, scheduled amidst tight security with over 5,000 police officers around the venue, will take place with reduced fan attendance—only around 20,000 expected in the 80,000-capacity stadium. French President Emmanuel Macron is expected to attend the match, and the security presence reflects the sensitive atmosphere.

 

Both Ben Shimon and France coach Didier Deschamps emphasized the need for their teams to adapt and concentrate on their on-field performance, acknowledging the broader context but prioritizing the game itself. France currently sits second in their Nations League group, while Israel remains at the bottom without a point.

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