Israel through to U20 World Cup SEMI FINALS

Israel advanced to the Semi Finals of the U20 World Cup in Argentina after beating Brazil 3-2 in Extra Time of a dramatic Quarter Finals at San Juan. Israel will now await the winner between the USA and Uruguay who play each other tomorrow, to learn the identity of their Semi Final opponent on Thursday at 20:30.

Ophir Haim’s side, came back to cancel Brazil’s lead twice before Maccabi’s young striker Dor Turgeman scored the winning goal in the 105th minute with a solo effort.

Roy Revivo completed the full 120 minutes, Turgeman was the star man with 105 minutes and a goal while fellow Maccabi teammates Roy Navi (85) and Shon Edri (120) were introduced as substitutes.

Marcos Leonardo put Brazil in front on 56 while Anan Khalaili who scored a late winner in the Round of 16 against Uzbekistan headed in the equalizer four minutes later. Both teams went into 30 minutes of extra time as the match ended in a 1-1 after 90 minutes. But 20 seconds after the restart, Brazil’s substitute Matheus Nascimento restored Brazil’s lead with an accurate shot from inside the box.

Israel’s never say die attitude which was displayed throughout the Final tournament in Argentina, was evident once again as Hamza Shibli leveled the score from close range less than two minutes later.

As the first period of extra time was reaching its final minute, Turgeman received the ball inside Brazil’s penalty area, danced past two defenders and fired in Israel’s first lead of the match. This was Turgeman’s final contribution at San Juan as the 18-year-old striker who worked tirelessly throughout the match was replaced.

Israel were handed two chances to seal the victory after being awarded a penalty on 114 but Brazil’s keeper Kaique saved Ilay Madmon’s spot kick. Omer Senior pounced on the rebound but was fouled by Kaique as Israel were awarded a second spot kick. Ahmad Salman stepped-up but miscued his penalty wide to give Israel some nerve biting minutes as the full time whistle began the celebrations.      

After the match, Dor Turgeman told the TV cameras: “We had a difficult day after hearing the news from Israel of the attack near the border with Egypt which claimed the lives on three soldiers. We dedicate this victory to their families as I wish we managed to put a smile on the faces of people back home on this tragic day.” On his solo effort against Brazil, Turgeman added: “I am lost for words and have nothing to say as I am so excited and emotional. I found myself in the box and did what I do best so I am just delighted the ball went in.”