Israeli joy after historic win

Amir Taga's added-time winner confirmed Israel's place in the UEFA European Under-21 Championship finals for the first time after a victory against France in Hertzliya secured a 2-1 aggregate scoreline.

Historic win
A crowd of 7,500 were present for the historic win which saw Guy Levy's talented youngsters repeat the result they achieved against the French in March 2005. That time a 3-2 victory was not enough to see the Israelis advance beyond the group stage but now they will get their chance against the cream of Europe’s U21 talent in the Netherlands next summer.

French domination
Going into the match with the advantage of an away goal from Saturday's encounter in Caen, Israel found themselves under pressure in the first half as France dominated. However, the closest the visitors could come to breaking the deadlock was a Jimmy Briand effort that Tom Al Madon did well to save at the Stade Rennais striker's feet.

Taga winner
Israel began the second half more brightly but Toto Tamuz failed to make the most of a good opening three minutes in, while Omer Peretz blasted wide four minutes later and Tamuz headed across the face of goal on 68 minutes. Meanwhile, France were still threatening at the other end and Albin Ebondo was unfortunate to see a shot crash against the base of the post before Taga had the final say - the substitute turning in a rebound after Tamuz had seen a shot on the counterattack saved.

Levy delight
Israel coach Levy said: "We worked very hard and have reached the final hurdle with a set of brave, ambitious and talented players who never stop to amaze me." Captain Dekel Keinan was added: "It is unbelievable to reach a major finals, it is something that this country hasn't experienced in 30 years [since the 1976 Olympics] and it’s about time we got the chance to enjoy something this big."