Israel will host Estonia at the Nagyerdei Stadium in Debrecen, Hungary, on Saturday, March 22, 2025, marking the beginning of their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign. This opening match pits the Chosen Team against a struggling Estonian squad and holds significant implications for both teams, who aim to establish a strong start in Group I.
The Israeli national team has faced a rocky path recently, having finished last in their UEFA Nations League group in late 2024 with a mere four points from six matches. This dismal performance resulted in their relegation to League B. However, they head into this qualifying clash buoyed by a narrow 1-0 victory over Belgium in their last outing, courtesy of a late goal from Yarden Shua, who made an impressive debut for his country. “I was very proud of how well our team did,” Shua remarked following his debut. “Every game will be treated the same, no more and no less important.” This victory was critical in lifting team spirits as they look to capitalize on home advantage against Estonia.
Meanwhile, Estonia also had a challenging Nations League campaign, ending third in their league with only four points. Their most recent match showcased their struggles, as they fell 1-0 to Slovakia, failing to register a single shot on target. This highlights the significant challenge that coach Jurgen Henn faces in revitalizing the squad for this pivotal qualifier. Estonia’s last precedence against Israel has been equally disheartening, as they have lost to the Israelis in all three of their past encounters, including a 4-0 defeat during the Euro 2008 qualifiers.
As the teams prepare to clash, the narratives around their respective forms cannot be overlooked. Israel, ranked 76th in the latest FIFA standings, is currently poised to outperform the Estonian side, who sit 47 places below them in 123rd. The Israeli squad, well aware of their historical dominance, will be keen to avoid any complacency and start their qualification campaign with maximum points.
In terms of match arrangements, both teams are gearing up with some player adjustments due to injuries. Israel will be without Miguel Vitor, Dia Saba, and Dolev Haziza, who have been ruled out. Goalkeeper Omri Glazer may get the nod to start after missing previous matches. Meanwhile, Manor Solomon, who has been a standout performer for Leeds United with seven goals and seven assists, is expected to play a crucial role in leading the attack alongside Dean David.
On the Estonian side, veteran forward Henri Anier, who is on the verge of earning his 100th international cap, finds himself in competition for a starting spot. He is joined by promising players like Patrik Kristal in the midfield, who could prove pivotal if Estonia hopes to challenge Israel. Meanwhile, Arsenal loanee Karl Hein is again expected to start in goal for Estonia, despite his struggles in the previous matches.
Betting agencies favor Israel, offering odds of 1.45 for a home win. Experts predict it could be a comfortable outing for the Israelis, with suggestions of Israel winning by a margin of at least two goals. Betting tips indicate placing wagers for more than 2.5 goals, as Israel’s last nine matches have seen an average of goals exceeding this figure.
As the match approaches, anticipation builds not only because of the stakes at hand but also due to the historical context of Israel’s prior encounters with Estonia. Beyond the raw competition is the personal narrative of players, with Anier aiming for a milestone and debutants like Shua seeking to establish themselves firmly in the national team framework. “The Israeli national team is not just another stop for me, it is a mission,” Shua stated, underlining his dedication to the team’s success.
Ultimately, as the stadium lights prepare to shine down on the pitch, both teams have much to prove. Israel looks to build on their recent momentum and restore their standing in international football, while Estonia seeks redemption from prior defeats. Fans will undoubtedly fill the stands at Nagyerdei Stadium, eager to witness the kickoff of what promises to be an exhilarating qualifying journey.