Israeli teams, including Maccabi Haifa, are competing in UEFA tournaments like the Champions League despite Israel’s geographical location outside Europe. Israel’s football history includes a complex journey from the Asian Football Confederation to UEFA membership, which was obtained in 1994 due to political opposition from certain nations. Israeli clubs have since participated in various European competitions, enhancing their presence on the international stage.
An English club may soon travel to Israel for a Champions League match, with Maccabi Haifa competing for a spot in the group stage. They are set to face Serbian club FK Crvena zvezda (Red Star Belgrade) in the final qualifying round, starting with the first leg this Wednesday.
Questions often arise regarding the participation of Israeli teams in the UEFA Champions League, given Israel’s geographical location outside of Europe. This article explores the reasons behind Israel’s membership in UEFA and its historical context in international football.
Israel’s footballing journey began as part of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) in 1954. However, due to political tensions, many Muslim nations refused to compete against Israel, stemming from the Arab League’s boycott. This prevented Israel from capitalizing on its Football World Cup qualification in 1958, as the team had to face Wales in a playoff, which they lost.
In 1964, Israel hosted and won the AFC Asian Cup, its only major international victory, although most nations withdrew from competing. Israel qualified for the 1970 World Cup but finished last in a challenging group that included Italy and Uruguay. However, in 1974, Israel was expelled from the AFC as a result of a proposal by Kuwait.
By the early 1980s, Israel began competing in European tournaments, participating in the 1982 World Cup qualifiers. From 1986 to 1990, Israeli teams played in Oceania groups. Israeli clubs entered European club competitions in 1991, solidifying their presence in the European football scene, and were officially recognized as UEFA members in 1994.
Since joining UEFA, Israel’s clubs have consistently participated in European tournaments, including the Champions League and the Europa League. Over the years, seven Israeli clubs have competed in the Champions League, with prominent teams like Maccabi Haifa and Maccabi Tel Aviv representing the nation.
Original Source: inews.co.uk
