Israel's Soccer Team Defeated by Kosovo Amid Controversial National Anthem Booing
Israeli soccer team loses to Kosovo in first match since Israel-Hamas war, facing a 1-0 defeat in European Championship qualifier
Israel's national soccer team suffered a 1-0 defeat against Kosovo in a European Championship qualifying match, marking their first game since the commencement of the Israel-Hamas war. Videos circulating on social media indicate that, during the pre-match rendition of Israel's national anthem, certain attendees in Kosovo expressed disapproval through booing and whistling.
CNN has reached out to UEFA, the governing body for European football, as well as the Israeli Football Association, for their feedback.
Initially set for October 15, the match was delayed due to the war's eruption.
Kosovo secured a victory in challenging weather conditions at the Pristina City Stadium, thanks to Milot Rashica's impressive goal just before halftime.
With this win, Kosovo now sits at 10 points in Group I standings, only one point behind Israel in third place. The top two teams, Romania and Switzerland, are currently on track for automatic qualification to next year's European Championship in Germany.
Kosovo's players celebrate Milot Rashica's goal against Israel.
Armend Nimani/AFP/Getty Images
Kosovo had a chance to extend its lead shortly after Rashicas goal.
After scoring the opening goal, the BeÅiktaÅ winger saw his shot saved by Omri Glazer. In the second half, Glazer once again denied substitute Zymer Bytyqi. Despite having a total of 13 shots, with seven on target, Kosovo failed to score another goal in the second period.
Israel's defeat was further compounded by Roy Revivo's red card in extra time, as the defender received a second yellow for his challenge on Ermal Krasniqi. Following the match, Israel coach Alon Hazan emphasized the significance of their country over football, stating, "Our country takes precedence over the sport," as reported by Reuters. Despite the ongoing conflict, the team aims to play football and proudly represent their nation.
Israel's upcoming match against Switzerland, scheduled for Wednesday, will take place at the Pancho Aréna in Hungary.
CNNs Kevin Dotson contributed to reporting.
