The upcoming Euro 2024 playoff semi-final between Israel and Iceland is set to be a fascinating encounter, not just for the high stakes involved but also for the unique narratives that both teams bring to the match. This Thursday, on neutral ground in Budapest, the teams will vie for a chance to edge closer to qualification for a tournament that has historically eluded both nations. Here’s a deeper look into both teams' journeys, key players, and what this match signifies for each side.
Israel's performance in the Euro 2024 qualifiers showcased a team on the cusp of achieving automatic qualification. Finishing 3rd in a group with Romania, Switzerland, Belarus, Kosovo, and Andorra, and only two points shy of Switzerland, Israel demonstrated their capabilities and potential. This performance, while commendable, would likely be tinged with a hint of disappointment for missing out on automatic qualification so narrowly, particularly when they dropped points against some poor sides in the process.
Central to Israel's hopes is Oscar Gloukh, the 19-year-old attacking midfielder from RB Salzburg, whose talent and potential are a beacon for the team's aspirations. Gloukh's contribution to the team's dynamics cannot be overstated, providing creative spark and a goal threat from midfield. Under the stewardship of Alon Hazan, Israel have shown resilience and adaptability.
The geopolitical landscape has also played a part in Israel's journey, with the team relinquishing the home advantage they were set to enjoy for this tie due to political issues. This relocation of the match to Budapest adds another layer of complexity and challenge for the team but also speaks to the team's resilience and ability to adapt to circumstances beyond their control.
Israel's participation in major international tournaments has been limited, with their only appearance being at the 1970 World Cup. This playoff presents a golden opportunity for the team to make history by qualifying for their first European Championship.
Iceland's journey to the Euro 2024 playoffs paints a picture of a team in transition. Finishing 4th in a qualifying group that also featured Portugal, Slovakia, Luxembourg, Bosnia-Herzegovina, and Liechtenstein, Iceland's campaign was underwhelming, reflecting a decline from the heights of Euro 2016. That tournament, where Iceland reached the quarter-finals, remains a high watermark in Icelandic football, marking their debut in major international competitions and capturing the imagination of football fans worldwide.
The intervening years have seen a steady decline in Iceland's football fortunes, culminating in a lacklustre qualifying campaign for Euro 2024. This decline is somewhat puzzling given that, on paper, it could be argued that Iceland are still as good as they were in 2016, so performances being markedly worse is somewhat of a puzzle.
Genoa's Albert Guðmundsson stands out as the notable player in the current squad, carrying the weight of expectation for his attacking contributions on the field. Additionally, Lille winger Hákon Arnar Haraldsson and Ajax youngster Kristian Hlynsson are a pair of very promising prospects. Under the guidance of Åge Hareide, Iceland seek to rediscover the spirit and cohesiveness that propelled them to success in previous years.
Iceland's head-to-head record against Israel, with three draws and two losses in five attempts, including two draws in their most recent meetings in 2022, suggests a closely matched contest. This historical context adds another dimension to the upcoming match, with Iceland looking to secure their first victory against Israel when it matters most.
Euro 2024 Qualifying - Group I 
