Manor Solomon vows Israel response after Ireland’s 3-0 win
Manor Solomon has vowed Israel will respond differently when they meet Ireland again on 4 October after a 3-0 defeat in Debrecen intensified an already hostile rivalry.
Solomon targets Ireland after 3-0 loss
The West Ham winger reacted angrily after Israel were beaten by three goals in an empty stadium, with tension having built before kick-off during the Israeli anthem.
Ireland’s players did not take part in the customary handshakes and stood looking down at the pitch with their hands behind their backs during the anthem. Solomon said the gesture would not be forgotten before the quick return fixture in Backa Topola, Serbia.
“I’m waiting for the next game against them,” Solomon said. “It will be a totally different match.”
He added that Ireland did not concern him, insisting Israel had “a country ten times better than theirs” and saying the squad were proud to represent Israel, its people, the state and its soldiers.
Solomon also suggested the relationship between the teams had broken down completely. “They can use all their tricks,” he said. “We are Israelis and we love our country.” He said that revealing his full opinion of Ireland could result in a suspension, adding that the two sides did not like each other.
Israel coach accepts responsibility
Israel coach Ran Ben Shimon took a markedly different approach, accepting blame for a performance he said fell apart both mentally and tactically under the pressure surrounding the match.
Ben Shimon said the preparation had appeared adequate beforehand but proved insufficient on the night. He described the result as a major disappointment and said his players did not grasp the weight of the occasion.
- Pre-match tension rose as Ireland’s players declined the usual handshakes and adopted a silent stance during Israel’s anthem.
- Israel then suffered a comprehensive 3-0 defeat in Debrecen.
- Solomon delivered a forceful response aimed at Ireland after the final whistle.
- Ben Shimon accepted responsibility and called for his side to reset quickly.
- The teams are due to meet again in Backa Topola on 4 October.
What happens next
Both squads have another fixture before the rematch. Ireland are scheduled to host Austria in Dublin, while Israel face Kosovo as they attempt to recover from the Debrecen setback.
The Backa Topola game remains under a cloud after a number of Ireland players had previously raised objections to taking part. Solomon’s comments have added further strain ahead of the second meeting.
- Israel lost 3-0 in Debrecen.
- Solomon has promised a different showing in the return match.
- Ben Shimon said Israel must handle pressure better.
- Ireland play Austria next; Israel meet Kosovo.
- The rematch is scheduled for 4 October in Backa Topola.
