Context of the Upcoming France-Israel Match
The upcoming Nations League match between France and Israel is set against a backdrop of significant geopolitical tension due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Israeli national coach Ran Ben Shimon expressed the profound impact the war has on his team, stating, "The war in Israel affects us a lot." He emphasized the importance of focusing on the match as a way to bring some relief to the situation back home, despite the challenges. The match will take place in an ultra-secure environment in Saint-Denis, with 4,000 police officers and gendarmes present to ensure safety, reflecting the heightened security concerns.
Players' Perspectives on the Situation
Captain Eli Dasa echoed Ben Shimon's sentiments, acknowledging the difficulty of hearing bad news from Israel while preparing for the game. He expressed gratitude towards the French government for providing a peaceful environment for the match, despite the emotional toll the conflict takes on the players. Dasa also noted the limited number of Israeli supporters expected at the stadium, highlighting the challenges of playing away from home during such turbulent times.
French Team's Approach to the Match
On the French side, coach Didier Deschamps is striving to maintain a focus on football, stating his intention to prepare for the match "as normally as possible." He acknowledged the heavy context surrounding the game but reiterated the need to treat it as a sporting event. Midfielder N'Golo Kanté also commented on the situation, expressing hope for improvement in the region while emphasizing the team's role in representing France rather than personal opinions. The match, while politically charged, is seen as an opportunity for both teams to showcase their skills amid a challenging environment.
