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Israel’s U-20 Soccer Team Advances To World Cup Quarterfinals With Dramatic Late Goal

Anan Khalaili's 97th-minute strike seals victory for Israel over Uzbekistan

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This year marks Israel’s debut appearance in the U-20 World Cup tournament, having previously participated in the main World Cup in 1970 without securing a single victory. (Photo: YouTube.)

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In an astonishing turn of events, Israel’s national Under-20 soccer team continued their remarkable journey in the World Cup with a thrilling 1-0 victory over Uzbekistan on Tuesday. The game remained goalless for 96 minutes until Anan Khalaili unleashed a close-range strike in the 97th minute, propelling Israel into the U-20 World Cup quarterfinals. Their next opponent will be determined in the match between Brazil and Tunisia on Wednesday.

This walk-off goal at Santiago del Estero in Argentina came just days after the Israeli youth squad achieved a historic milestone by securing their first-ever win in any FIFA soccer World Cup. In a sensational comeback, they defeated Japan 2-1 in stoppage time on May 27.

While Saturday’s winning goal showcased skillful passes, Tuesday’s decisive strike seemed more serendipitous. With time running out, Khalaili attempted a header from a penalty kick but inadvertently struck the ball against a defender’s leg. However, fortune favored him as the rebound fell right in front of him. Displaying immense determination, Khalaili outmaneuvered two defenders and deftly slotted the ball between the goalkeeper’s legs, sealing the victory.

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“I felt it. I had a good feeling about it. I knew it,” exclaimed Khalaili, still exhilarated from the match. The winning goal arrived after an intense hour and a half of both teams failing to convert numerous scoring opportunities. Both sides had shots hitting the crossbar during the first half.

Manager Ofir Haim expressed pride in his players, acknowledging the toughness of the game and emphasizing the team’s character and resilience. While acknowledging room for improvement in their performance, Haim commended the team’s fighting spirit.

This year marks Israel’s debut appearance in the U-20 World Cup tournament, having previously participated in the main World Cup in 1970 without securing a single victory. After a heart-wrenching last-minute defeat to Colombia in their opening match and a lukewarm draw against Senegal, the victory over Uzbekistan has revitalized Israel’s aspirations in the tournament.

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Looking ahead, Haim affirmed that the team would be prepared to face whichever opponent awaits them, whether it be Tunisia or the formidable favorites, Brazil. He urged belief in the national team’s capabilities and expressed confidence in their ability to compete.

High on the momentum of their triumph over Asian champions Uzbekistan, Khalaili also exuded optimism about facing the legendary South American team. He emphasized their willingness to study Brazil through game footage, emphasizing that they are not to be underestimated and have already demonstrated their prowess.

The tournament, taking place in Argentina, originally had Indonesia as the host and participant. However, Indonesia’s involvement was revoked due to protests in the Muslim-majority country against hosting the Israeli team. Despite the challenges faced off the field, Israel’s U-20 team continues to make waves on the pitch, captivating fans with their remarkable performances.

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Thank you for choosing TheJ.Ca as your source for Canadian Jewish News.

We do news differently!

Our positioning as a Zionist News Media platform sets us apart from the rest. While other Canadian Jewish media are advocating increasingly biased progressive political and social agendas, TheJ.Ca is providing more and more readers with a welcome alternative and an ideological home.

We revealed the incursion of anti-Israel progressive elements such as IfNotNow into our communities. We have exposed the distorted hateful agenda of the “progressive” left political radicals who brought Linda Sarsour to our cities, and we were first to report on many disturbing incidents of Nazi-based hate towards Jews across Canada.

But we can’t do it alone. We need your HELP!

Our ability to thrive and grow in 2020 and beyond depends on the generosity of committed readers and supporters like you.

Monthly support is a great way to help us sustain our operations. We greatly appreciate any contributions you can make to support Jewish Journalism.

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