Israel's U21 football team has recently ended a nearly decade-long drought by securing qualification for the UEFA U21 Championship and the U20 World Cup, marking a significant achievement for the nation's youth national teams.
Under the guidance of coach Guy Luzon, the U21-team showcased remarkable resilience and determination throughout the qualifying stage. Despite possessing one of the least valued squads, they managed an impressive record of six victories, three draws, and three defeats, securing a second-place finish behind Germany.
Qualifying results:
Qualifying
4-4-2 double pivot: Poland D2:2
4-4-2 double pivot: Germany L 0:1
4-2-3-1 Latvia L 1:0
4-3-3 attacking W 2:0 San Marino
Play Off Leg 1 – 4-2-3-1 Ireland 1:1
Leg 2 – 5-3-2 W 3:1 on pens
In the Euro group stage, which featured strong favourites like England and Germany, Israel demonstrated exceptional organization, particularly in defence, surpassing everyone's expectations. Despite their squad's lower value, they defied the odds and reached the semi-finals of the tournament. This accomplishment can be largely attributed to their solid defensive strategy, which effectively neutralized much stronger opponents. Throughout the tournament, Israel maintained an average possession rate of 38% and scored only two goals in five games. However, they maintained a steadfast belief in their offensive process, regardless of the opposition. The Israeli team consistently initiated their attacks from the back, employing dynamic midfield and attacking movements to deceive opponents and capitalize on counter-attacking opportunities.
Euros U21
Group Stage Game 1: 3-4-2-1 – Germany 1-1
Game 2: 4-4-1-1 England L 2:0
Game 3: 4-4-2 Czech W 1:0
QF: 4-4-2 Georgia W 3:4Pens
SF: 4-4-2 England L 0:3
Israel have deployed 7 different formations in the 11 games of their Euro campaign, showing Luzon’s tactical flexibility depending on who the opponents are. However, most of these formations fit into and revolve around a 3-5-2 variance when in play.
In this comprehensive tactical analysis, I will delve into Israel U21's key tactics and processes, both in their offensive and defensive phases of play. By examining these aspects, we aim to familiarize you with the team's prominent players, who play a pivotal role under the leadership of coach Guy Luzon.
Out of possession
Israel's defensive setup revolves around a 3-5-2 formation, which demonstrates their emphasis on solidity and compactness. In defensive situations, the team undergoes a tactical shift to fortify their defensive structure. The fullbacks, traditionally positioned wider, drop deeper and narrower, effectively joining the three central defenders to form a cohesive backline of five. This strategic adjustment aims to provide additional defensive cover and minimize gaps in the defensive unit. Israel's midfield trio also plays a crucial role in their defensive scheme. They adopt a flat shape, positioning themselves in front of the backline to create another line of three, effectively adding an extra layer of protection. This midfield setup aims to restrict the opponent's passing lanes and limit their penetration through the centre of the pitch. To further enhance their defensive solidity, the two strikers in the 3-5-2 formation actively contribute by screening and pressuring the opposition's midfield. Their objective is to disrupt the flow of play, intercept passes, and prevent the opposition from easily transitioning into attacking positions.
Israel's defensive prowess is evident in their impressive defensive statistics from the competition. Throughout the tournament, they conceded only 15 attempts on target, resulting in just six goals against them. This performance highlights their ability to restrict the opposition's scoring opportunities. Additionally, Israel boasted one of the highest numbers of clean sheets in the competition, demonstrating their effectiveness in denying opponents clear-cut chances.
Overall, Israel's defensive strategy in the 3-5-2 formation showcases their commitment to defensive organization, limiting their opponents' chances and establishing a solid defensive structure.
Israel's U21 team displays strength in their ability to recover possession, as evidenced by their impressive 159 recoveries throughout the competition. Their players exhibit a tenacious and proactive approach, particularly the defensive midfielders who showcase high levels of aggression when engaging in defensive duels and pressing opponents.
In terms of defensive structure, Israel's central midfielders adopt a cohesive defensive line. They work in unison, defending and pressing as a collective unit. By maintaining a compact and coordinated midfield line, Israel effectively denies the opposition space and passing options in the central areas of the pitch. This synchronized defensive approach ensures that the central midfielders act as a formidable barrier, preventing opponents from easily advancing through the middle.
However, it is worth noting that Israel's aggressive playing style has resulted in disciplinary challenges. In the "fair play" table, the team ranks towards the lowest, having received 16 yellow cards and 1 red card throughout the 5 games of the tournament. The players' robustness in their pursuit of regaining possession sometimes leads to mistimed challenges or tactical fouls, resulting in disciplinary actions from the officials.
Luzon's team employs a medium-high pressing approach, with the two strikers responsible for pressing the opposing centre-backs. When the opposition's goalkeeper is in possession, the attackers exercise patience, dropping to wait for the right moment to initiate their press. Notably, when facing significantly stronger opponents, Israel adjusts their pressing strategy by reducing the intensity and compactness of their block. This adaptation aims to minimize the team's exposure and maintain a more organized defensive shape, which we have seen change multiple times depending on the opponent.
In terms of individual marking, the fullbacks primarily focus on tracking and marking the corresponding wingers. However, there are situations where the fullbacks engage in pressing the opposition's fullbacks, particularly when specific pressing cues arise, such as aerial balls or poor passes. While this pressing system generally yields positive outcomes, there are certain concerns associated with it. For instance, if the opposition's ability to circulate the ball is swift and fluid, the fullback can find themselves in a numerical disadvantage near the touchline (1v2) against the opposition's winger and fullback. This predicament arises due to the significant distance between the fullback and the midfielders, making it challenging for the midfielders to press both the opposition's midfielder and fullback effectively. Furthermore, the two strikers encounter difficulties when attempting to press the opposition's defensive midfielder, especially when the defensive midfielder drops deep to participate in a three-man build-up.
It is essential for Israel to address these concerns to maintain defensive stability and effectively counter the opposition's offensive manoeuvres. Fine-tuning their coordination between the fullbacks and midfielders, as well as finding suitable pressing solutions for scenarios involving the opposition's defensive midfielder, will contribute to strengthening their pressing system.
Variations of formation
During the qualifiers, as well as the quarter and semi-finals, Guy Luzon deployed various formations, including a 4-4-2, 4-3-3, 3-4-2-1, and 4-3-2-1. All of these formations allow for a 3-5-2 transition. Three defenders to remain in defensive positions, two midfielders to hold as a double pivot, and the remaining five players to push forward, albeit in different areas of the field or positions. Some games it was an extra midfielder, others it was having both wide players advance together. We also saw a double pivot in midfield at times which provided enhanced defensive protection in front of the defence, creating a strong presence in the central midfield area. The use of a double pivot enables the two players to effectively screen forward passes and compete for loose balls following direct passes from the opposition. Moreover, the presence of two central midfielders offers additional passing options, enabling the creation of overloads both centrally and out wide. The versatility of two players in midfield provides a wider range of movement and strategic possibilities compared to a single pivot. The double pivot allows both full backs to advance simultaneously, knowing that they are supported defensively by the midfield duo. This dynamic allows the full backs to contribute to attacking play and cover both sides of the pitch when they venture forward at the same time. This coordinated approach not only maintains defensive stability but also adds an element of unpredictability to Israel's attacking movements.
Attacking
The 3-5-2 formation, which has been successfully utilized by renowned coaches like Antonio Conte, Simone Inzaghi, and Jose Mourinho, has made a significant impact in Italian football. Israel's U21 team also adopts this formation, where the full backs play a crucial role in both the build-up and attacking phases. Initially, they drop deep to contribute to the build-up play from the defensive line. However, once the defensive midfield link is established, the full-backs transition into more advanced positions, essentially functioning as wingers. This tactical adjustment allows for increased width and offensive options.
Furthermore, in certain situations, Israel's formation resembles a 3-4-3 setup, with the midfielders positioning themselves high up the pitch, just behind the strikers. This offensive configuration offers an additional attacking threat and places the team in a favourable position to create scoring opportunities.
Israel demonstrates a level of comfort when in possession of the ball. Their preferred approach involves building up from the back, with the three centre-backs being the initial participants in this process. The team often initiates the build-up from the right side, capitalizing on Stav Lemkin's exceptional ability to process and read the game effectively in this stage. However, when faced with high pressing from the opposition, Israel encounters difficulties in maintaining their construction, leading to misplaced passes in crucial areas of the pitch. In terms of pass accuracy, the team's percentile rank is not particularly encouraging.
One notable characteristic of Israel's playing style is their inclination to involve their full backs in the attack. These players have a significant impact on offensive movements, effectively operating as wide and advanced wingers on the field. Their primary objective is to create solutions in the wider areas, providing crosses into the box for their well-positioned teammates.
Overall, Israel's utilization of the 3-5-2 formation highlights their adaptability and offensive intentions. The involvement of full-backs as advanced wingers adds an extra dimension to their attacking play, while the team's ability to build from the back demonstrates their preference for controlled possession-based football.
However, the fullbacks also play a crucial role in supporting the centre-backs in possession. They drop deep down the pitch to assist the ball carrier, providing an additional passing option and ensuring defensive stability. The positioning of the strikers is designed to create space between the opposition's defensive lines. Initially positioned high, they aim to draw the attention of the opposing backline, thus opening gaps for their teammates to exploit. Both strikers have the freedom to exploit the free space behind the opposition's midfield, offering an additional passing option for the centre-backs when they are under pressure. Furthermore, the strikers can engage in physical battles with the opposing backline, facilitating a more direct style of play, which is particularly evident with Dor Turgeman.
In Luzon's tactical model, the midfielder on the same flank as the ball carrier often drops deeper to provide support. As Israel tends to build predominantly through the right flank, it is natural for the central-right midfielder to be positioned closer to the central or defensive midfielder, helping the ball carrier. Consequently, the left central midfielder, tends to be positioned in more advanced areas, exploiting the space between the opposition's defensive lines created by the strikers. However, when the ball carrier is the left centre-back, the roles can switch, with the positioning shifting accordingly. This dynamic positioning and interchanging roles within the midfield contribute to Israel's fluidity and adaptability in their build-up play. The team leverages the positional awareness of their players to create passing options, exploit spaces, and maintain a cohesive structure throughout different phases of play.
When Israel manages to advance towards the opponents' by-line, typically their fullbacks, they often try to commit a significant number of players to attack the box. This offensive approach involves the involvement of five players in the attack, aiming to maximize their options for scoring opportunities.
Among the attacking contingent, there are typically two strikers positioned centrally, ready to make runs and capitalize on crosses across goal or cutbacks. Two midfielders also venture forward to join the attacking phase, one providing support outside the box and another timing his arrival for the cross. Moreover, the opposite fullback, who is not directly involved in initiating the attacking move, makes a late run to attack the back post.
By committing multiple players to attack the box, Israel increases the likelihood of creating goal-scoring chances and capitalizing on crosses or passes from wide areas. This approach emphasizes their intention to overload the opposition's defensive line, increasing the number of potential targets inside the penalty area.
Transitions
While having both fullbacks positioned wide in the offensive phase offers significant advantages, it also entails risks. If the team loses possession in an advanced zone, it can leave them exposed. There are instances where Israel's defensive line is positioned too high, leaving them vulnerable to opponents seeking depth in their attacks. This becomes a concern because if the fullbacks are caught high up the pitch and the central defenders lack speed, they struggle to recover quickly when the ball is turned over. This failure to rectify their positioning mistakes can lead to compromising their defensive structure and leaving ample space for opponents to exploit in behind.
Israel has struggled to capitalize on counter-attack opportunities and convert them into goal-scoring chances. This is evident from their low expected goals (xG) output in the tournament, ranking second lowest with 0.91 xG, resulting in a negative difference of -0.51 when comparing xG to actual goals scored. Despite playing several matches, they also recorded the third lowest number of goals scored.
Addressing these issues will be crucial for Israel's defensive stability and effectiveness in transition phases. It will be essential to improve their ability to transition from defence to attack swiftly and convert counter-attacking opportunities into meaningful chances. Additionally, maintaining proper defensive positioning and addressing any vulnerabilities in the defensive line will help mitigate the risks associated with high-tempo transitions and prevent opponents from exploiting space in behind the defensive line.
Standouts
Oscar Gloukh – CM/AM – RB Salzburg
Oscar Gloukh, a 19-year-old attacking midfielder, has quickly emerged as a standout player for Maccabi Tel Aviv's first team. His impact has been evident, contributing four goals and eight assists in just 15 matches. Moreover, his impressive performances in the UEFA Under-19 Championship, leading the Israeli Under-19 national team to the final, solidified his status as one of the tournament's most exceptional talents. His burgeoning reputation attracted significant attention, culminating in a €7 million move to RB Salzburg in January 2023, with interest from several top European clubs.
Gloukh possesses remarkable versatility with strength in both feet, making him an ambidextrous and unpredictable player. While his height of 170 cm may limit his effectiveness in aerial duels, he compensates through agility and exceptional dribbling skills, enabling him to navigate past physical opponents. His acceleration and pace are notable assets, allowing him to maintain control under pressure and swiftly change direction with impressive footwork.
Operating primarily in the Trequartista role, Gloukh demonstrates excellent technical abilities. His ball control, dribbling, and proficiency in one-on-one situations are notable, showcasing his composure and effectiveness in the attacking third. His passing range is highly proficient, displaying accuracy in both short and long-range distribution, which, combined with his exceptional vision, allows him to forge effective connections with teammates. Additionally, Gloukh's consistent goal-scoring ability adds further value to his attacking prowess.
What sets Gloukh apart is his exceptional ability to identify and exploit gaps in the opposition's defense. His vision and decision-making stand out among playmakers, enabling him to create opportunities and orchestrate attacking moves effectively. In addition to his technical prowess, Gloukh exhibits intelligence both on and off the ball. He communicates effectively with teammates, creating space and displaying strong positional awareness. His understanding of the game is evident through well-timed runs and precise passing, showcasing exceptional vision. Defensively, Gloukh contributes actively when required, displaying commitment and dedication to the team's collective efforts.
Overall, Gloukh's impressive performances leading the Israeli squad to unprecedented success in the UEFA competition have left an indelible impression. With his tactical intelligence, technical skills, and adaptability against opponents, club. While further development in physical presence would enhance his game, and as he develops his defensive side as expected, he possesses the potential to become a prominent attacking midfielder at a top European.
Stav Lamkin – CB - Hapoel Tel Aviv
Stav Lemkin, a towering figure at 6 foot 3, is an exceptional talent who has made a significant impact as a defender. His prowess in the air is undeniable, providing a strong presence during aerial duels and making him a valuable asset in defensive situations.
Lemkin's impressive performances have garnered recognition, as he was voted into the team of the tournament in the U19 Championship in 2022. Additionally, he continued his stellar form at Euro 23, where he showcased his defensive dominance by winning an astounding 91.7% of his defensive duels, solidifying his reputation as a standout player.
A composed player on the ball, Lemkin displays excellent dribbling skills and is an outstanding passer, capable of delivering accurate passes both short and long-range. His exceptional vision allows him to identify and exploit gaps between the lines, while his strong dribbling ability enables him to create space for himself and find the right pass.
Lemkin's reading of the game is exemplary, exhibiting great anticipation and timing in his challenges and interceptions. His understanding of the game is evident as he chooses the right moments to step out and engage opponents, showcasing his defensive intelligence.
Positionally, Lemkin excels, displaying excellent body shape and awareness. He understands when to angle a forward player inside or outside, effectively limiting their options and influencing their movements. Furthermore, his willingness to throw himself in front of shots demonstrates his commitment and fearlessness in protecting the goal.
Lemkin's impact extends beyond his defensive abilities. Israel often builds their attacks down his side, recognizing his proficiency on the ball and utilizing his skills to initiate and contribute to offensive movements.
His style of play draws reminds me of a young Sergio Ramos, obviously not the same level, but with room for further growth.
In summary, Stav Lemkin's combination of aerial dominance, composed ball control, exceptional passing ability, defensive intelligence, and positioning make him a highly promising talent. As he continues to refine his skills, he has the potential to become an elite defender in football.
Notable mentions
Roy Revivo
Gil Cohen
Omri Gandelman
Ethane Azoulay
Author: Nicholas Milne
Under the guidance of coach Guy Luzon, the U21-team showcased remarkable resilience and determination throughout the qualifying stage. Despite possessing one of the least valued squads, they managed an impressive record of six victories, three draws, and three defeats, securing a second-place finish behind Germany.
Qualifying results:
Qualifying
4-4-2 double pivot: Poland D2:2
4-4-2 double pivot: Germany L 0:1
4-2-3-1 Latvia L 1:0
4-3-3 attacking W 2:0 San Marino
Play Off Leg 1 – 4-2-3-1 Ireland 1:1
Leg 2 – 5-3-2 W 3:1 on pens
In the Euro group stage, which featured strong favourites like England and Germany, Israel demonstrated exceptional organization, particularly in defence, surpassing everyone's expectations. Despite their squad's lower value, they defied the odds and reached the semi-finals of the tournament. This accomplishment can be largely attributed to their solid defensive strategy, which effectively neutralized much stronger opponents. Throughout the tournament, Israel maintained an average possession rate of 38% and scored only two goals in five games. However, they maintained a steadfast belief in their offensive process, regardless of the opposition. The Israeli team consistently initiated their attacks from the back, employing dynamic midfield and attacking movements to deceive opponents and capitalize on counter-attacking opportunities.
Euros U21
Group Stage Game 1: 3-4-2-1 – Germany 1-1
Game 2: 4-4-1-1 England L 2:0
Game 3: 4-4-2 Czech W 1:0
QF: 4-4-2 Georgia W 3:4Pens
SF: 4-4-2 England L 0:3
Israel have deployed 7 different formations in the 11 games of their Euro campaign, showing Luzon’s tactical flexibility depending on who the opponents are. However, most of these formations fit into and revolve around a 3-5-2 variance when in play.
In this comprehensive tactical analysis, I will delve into Israel U21's key tactics and processes, both in their offensive and defensive phases of play. By examining these aspects, we aim to familiarize you with the team's prominent players, who play a pivotal role under the leadership of coach Guy Luzon.
Out of possession
Israel's defensive setup revolves around a 3-5-2 formation, which demonstrates their emphasis on solidity and compactness. In defensive situations, the team undergoes a tactical shift to fortify their defensive structure. The fullbacks, traditionally positioned wider, drop deeper and narrower, effectively joining the three central defenders to form a cohesive backline of five. This strategic adjustment aims to provide additional defensive cover and minimize gaps in the defensive unit. Israel's midfield trio also plays a crucial role in their defensive scheme. They adopt a flat shape, positioning themselves in front of the backline to create another line of three, effectively adding an extra layer of protection. This midfield setup aims to restrict the opponent's passing lanes and limit their penetration through the centre of the pitch. To further enhance their defensive solidity, the two strikers in the 3-5-2 formation actively contribute by screening and pressuring the opposition's midfield. Their objective is to disrupt the flow of play, intercept passes, and prevent the opposition from easily transitioning into attacking positions.
Israel's defensive prowess is evident in their impressive defensive statistics from the competition. Throughout the tournament, they conceded only 15 attempts on target, resulting in just six goals against them. This performance highlights their ability to restrict the opposition's scoring opportunities. Additionally, Israel boasted one of the highest numbers of clean sheets in the competition, demonstrating their effectiveness in denying opponents clear-cut chances.
Overall, Israel's defensive strategy in the 3-5-2 formation showcases their commitment to defensive organization, limiting their opponents' chances and establishing a solid defensive structure.
Israel's U21 team displays strength in their ability to recover possession, as evidenced by their impressive 159 recoveries throughout the competition. Their players exhibit a tenacious and proactive approach, particularly the defensive midfielders who showcase high levels of aggression when engaging in defensive duels and pressing opponents.
In terms of defensive structure, Israel's central midfielders adopt a cohesive defensive line. They work in unison, defending and pressing as a collective unit. By maintaining a compact and coordinated midfield line, Israel effectively denies the opposition space and passing options in the central areas of the pitch. This synchronized defensive approach ensures that the central midfielders act as a formidable barrier, preventing opponents from easily advancing through the middle.
However, it is worth noting that Israel's aggressive playing style has resulted in disciplinary challenges. In the "fair play" table, the team ranks towards the lowest, having received 16 yellow cards and 1 red card throughout the 5 games of the tournament. The players' robustness in their pursuit of regaining possession sometimes leads to mistimed challenges or tactical fouls, resulting in disciplinary actions from the officials.
Luzon's team employs a medium-high pressing approach, with the two strikers responsible for pressing the opposing centre-backs. When the opposition's goalkeeper is in possession, the attackers exercise patience, dropping to wait for the right moment to initiate their press. Notably, when facing significantly stronger opponents, Israel adjusts their pressing strategy by reducing the intensity and compactness of their block. This adaptation aims to minimize the team's exposure and maintain a more organized defensive shape, which we have seen change multiple times depending on the opponent.
In terms of individual marking, the fullbacks primarily focus on tracking and marking the corresponding wingers. However, there are situations where the fullbacks engage in pressing the opposition's fullbacks, particularly when specific pressing cues arise, such as aerial balls or poor passes. While this pressing system generally yields positive outcomes, there are certain concerns associated with it. For instance, if the opposition's ability to circulate the ball is swift and fluid, the fullback can find themselves in a numerical disadvantage near the touchline (1v2) against the opposition's winger and fullback. This predicament arises due to the significant distance between the fullback and the midfielders, making it challenging for the midfielders to press both the opposition's midfielder and fullback effectively. Furthermore, the two strikers encounter difficulties when attempting to press the opposition's defensive midfielder, especially when the defensive midfielder drops deep to participate in a three-man build-up.
It is essential for Israel to address these concerns to maintain defensive stability and effectively counter the opposition's offensive manoeuvres. Fine-tuning their coordination between the fullbacks and midfielders, as well as finding suitable pressing solutions for scenarios involving the opposition's defensive midfielder, will contribute to strengthening their pressing system.
Variations of formation
During the qualifiers, as well as the quarter and semi-finals, Guy Luzon deployed various formations, including a 4-4-2, 4-3-3, 3-4-2-1, and 4-3-2-1. All of these formations allow for a 3-5-2 transition. Three defenders to remain in defensive positions, two midfielders to hold as a double pivot, and the remaining five players to push forward, albeit in different areas of the field or positions. Some games it was an extra midfielder, others it was having both wide players advance together. We also saw a double pivot in midfield at times which provided enhanced defensive protection in front of the defence, creating a strong presence in the central midfield area. The use of a double pivot enables the two players to effectively screen forward passes and compete for loose balls following direct passes from the opposition. Moreover, the presence of two central midfielders offers additional passing options, enabling the creation of overloads both centrally and out wide. The versatility of two players in midfield provides a wider range of movement and strategic possibilities compared to a single pivot. The double pivot allows both full backs to advance simultaneously, knowing that they are supported defensively by the midfield duo. This dynamic allows the full backs to contribute to attacking play and cover both sides of the pitch when they venture forward at the same time. This coordinated approach not only maintains defensive stability but also adds an element of unpredictability to Israel's attacking movements.
Attacking
The 3-5-2 formation, which has been successfully utilized by renowned coaches like Antonio Conte, Simone Inzaghi, and Jose Mourinho, has made a significant impact in Italian football. Israel's U21 team also adopts this formation, where the full backs play a crucial role in both the build-up and attacking phases. Initially, they drop deep to contribute to the build-up play from the defensive line. However, once the defensive midfield link is established, the full-backs transition into more advanced positions, essentially functioning as wingers. This tactical adjustment allows for increased width and offensive options.
Furthermore, in certain situations, Israel's formation resembles a 3-4-3 setup, with the midfielders positioning themselves high up the pitch, just behind the strikers. This offensive configuration offers an additional attacking threat and places the team in a favourable position to create scoring opportunities.
Israel demonstrates a level of comfort when in possession of the ball. Their preferred approach involves building up from the back, with the three centre-backs being the initial participants in this process. The team often initiates the build-up from the right side, capitalizing on Stav Lemkin's exceptional ability to process and read the game effectively in this stage. However, when faced with high pressing from the opposition, Israel encounters difficulties in maintaining their construction, leading to misplaced passes in crucial areas of the pitch. In terms of pass accuracy, the team's percentile rank is not particularly encouraging.
One notable characteristic of Israel's playing style is their inclination to involve their full backs in the attack. These players have a significant impact on offensive movements, effectively operating as wide and advanced wingers on the field. Their primary objective is to create solutions in the wider areas, providing crosses into the box for their well-positioned teammates.
Overall, Israel's utilization of the 3-5-2 formation highlights their adaptability and offensive intentions. The involvement of full-backs as advanced wingers adds an extra dimension to their attacking play, while the team's ability to build from the back demonstrates their preference for controlled possession-based football.
However, the fullbacks also play a crucial role in supporting the centre-backs in possession. They drop deep down the pitch to assist the ball carrier, providing an additional passing option and ensuring defensive stability. The positioning of the strikers is designed to create space between the opposition's defensive lines. Initially positioned high, they aim to draw the attention of the opposing backline, thus opening gaps for their teammates to exploit. Both strikers have the freedom to exploit the free space behind the opposition's midfield, offering an additional passing option for the centre-backs when they are under pressure. Furthermore, the strikers can engage in physical battles with the opposing backline, facilitating a more direct style of play, which is particularly evident with Dor Turgeman.
In Luzon's tactical model, the midfielder on the same flank as the ball carrier often drops deeper to provide support. As Israel tends to build predominantly through the right flank, it is natural for the central-right midfielder to be positioned closer to the central or defensive midfielder, helping the ball carrier. Consequently, the left central midfielder, tends to be positioned in more advanced areas, exploiting the space between the opposition's defensive lines created by the strikers. However, when the ball carrier is the left centre-back, the roles can switch, with the positioning shifting accordingly. This dynamic positioning and interchanging roles within the midfield contribute to Israel's fluidity and adaptability in their build-up play. The team leverages the positional awareness of their players to create passing options, exploit spaces, and maintain a cohesive structure throughout different phases of play.
When Israel manages to advance towards the opponents' by-line, typically their fullbacks, they often try to commit a significant number of players to attack the box. This offensive approach involves the involvement of five players in the attack, aiming to maximize their options for scoring opportunities.
Among the attacking contingent, there are typically two strikers positioned centrally, ready to make runs and capitalize on crosses across goal or cutbacks. Two midfielders also venture forward to join the attacking phase, one providing support outside the box and another timing his arrival for the cross. Moreover, the opposite fullback, who is not directly involved in initiating the attacking move, makes a late run to attack the back post.
By committing multiple players to attack the box, Israel increases the likelihood of creating goal-scoring chances and capitalizing on crosses or passes from wide areas. This approach emphasizes their intention to overload the opposition's defensive line, increasing the number of potential targets inside the penalty area.
Transitions
While having both fullbacks positioned wide in the offensive phase offers significant advantages, it also entails risks. If the team loses possession in an advanced zone, it can leave them exposed. There are instances where Israel's defensive line is positioned too high, leaving them vulnerable to opponents seeking depth in their attacks. This becomes a concern because if the fullbacks are caught high up the pitch and the central defenders lack speed, they struggle to recover quickly when the ball is turned over. This failure to rectify their positioning mistakes can lead to compromising their defensive structure and leaving ample space for opponents to exploit in behind.
Israel has struggled to capitalize on counter-attack opportunities and convert them into goal-scoring chances. This is evident from their low expected goals (xG) output in the tournament, ranking second lowest with 0.91 xG, resulting in a negative difference of -0.51 when comparing xG to actual goals scored. Despite playing several matches, they also recorded the third lowest number of goals scored.
Addressing these issues will be crucial for Israel's defensive stability and effectiveness in transition phases. It will be essential to improve their ability to transition from defence to attack swiftly and convert counter-attacking opportunities into meaningful chances. Additionally, maintaining proper defensive positioning and addressing any vulnerabilities in the defensive line will help mitigate the risks associated with high-tempo transitions and prevent opponents from exploiting space in behind the defensive line.
Standouts
Oscar Gloukh – CM/AM – RB Salzburg
Oscar Gloukh, a 19-year-old attacking midfielder, has quickly emerged as a standout player for Maccabi Tel Aviv's first team. His impact has been evident, contributing four goals and eight assists in just 15 matches. Moreover, his impressive performances in the UEFA Under-19 Championship, leading the Israeli Under-19 national team to the final, solidified his status as one of the tournament's most exceptional talents. His burgeoning reputation attracted significant attention, culminating in a €7 million move to RB Salzburg in January 2023, with interest from several top European clubs.
Gloukh possesses remarkable versatility with strength in both feet, making him an ambidextrous and unpredictable player. While his height of 170 cm may limit his effectiveness in aerial duels, he compensates through agility and exceptional dribbling skills, enabling him to navigate past physical opponents. His acceleration and pace are notable assets, allowing him to maintain control under pressure and swiftly change direction with impressive footwork.
Operating primarily in the Trequartista role, Gloukh demonstrates excellent technical abilities. His ball control, dribbling, and proficiency in one-on-one situations are notable, showcasing his composure and effectiveness in the attacking third. His passing range is highly proficient, displaying accuracy in both short and long-range distribution, which, combined with his exceptional vision, allows him to forge effective connections with teammates. Additionally, Gloukh's consistent goal-scoring ability adds further value to his attacking prowess.
What sets Gloukh apart is his exceptional ability to identify and exploit gaps in the opposition's defense. His vision and decision-making stand out among playmakers, enabling him to create opportunities and orchestrate attacking moves effectively. In addition to his technical prowess, Gloukh exhibits intelligence both on and off the ball. He communicates effectively with teammates, creating space and displaying strong positional awareness. His understanding of the game is evident through well-timed runs and precise passing, showcasing exceptional vision. Defensively, Gloukh contributes actively when required, displaying commitment and dedication to the team's collective efforts.
Overall, Gloukh's impressive performances leading the Israeli squad to unprecedented success in the UEFA competition have left an indelible impression. With his tactical intelligence, technical skills, and adaptability against opponents, club. While further development in physical presence would enhance his game, and as he develops his defensive side as expected, he possesses the potential to become a prominent attacking midfielder at a top European.
Stav Lamkin – CB - Hapoel Tel Aviv
Stav Lemkin, a towering figure at 6 foot 3, is an exceptional talent who has made a significant impact as a defender. His prowess in the air is undeniable, providing a strong presence during aerial duels and making him a valuable asset in defensive situations.
Lemkin's impressive performances have garnered recognition, as he was voted into the team of the tournament in the U19 Championship in 2022. Additionally, he continued his stellar form at Euro 23, where he showcased his defensive dominance by winning an astounding 91.7% of his defensive duels, solidifying his reputation as a standout player.
A composed player on the ball, Lemkin displays excellent dribbling skills and is an outstanding passer, capable of delivering accurate passes both short and long-range. His exceptional vision allows him to identify and exploit gaps between the lines, while his strong dribbling ability enables him to create space for himself and find the right pass.
Lemkin's reading of the game is exemplary, exhibiting great anticipation and timing in his challenges and interceptions. His understanding of the game is evident as he chooses the right moments to step out and engage opponents, showcasing his defensive intelligence.
Positionally, Lemkin excels, displaying excellent body shape and awareness. He understands when to angle a forward player inside or outside, effectively limiting their options and influencing their movements. Furthermore, his willingness to throw himself in front of shots demonstrates his commitment and fearlessness in protecting the goal.
Lemkin's impact extends beyond his defensive abilities. Israel often builds their attacks down his side, recognizing his proficiency on the ball and utilizing his skills to initiate and contribute to offensive movements.
His style of play draws reminds me of a young Sergio Ramos, obviously not the same level, but with room for further growth.
In summary, Stav Lemkin's combination of aerial dominance, composed ball control, exceptional passing ability, defensive intelligence, and positioning make him a highly promising talent. As he continues to refine his skills, he has the potential to become an elite defender in football.
Notable mentions
Roy Revivo
Gil Cohen
Omri Gandelman
Ethane Azoulay
Author: Nicholas Milne