An overview of Israel’s footballing history reveals its complex journey in international competitions. Initially part of the AFC, political challenges led to its exclusion in 1974. By joining Uefa in 1994, Israeli clubs began participating in European tournaments, including the Champions League, with notable teams like Maccabi Haifa actively competing today.
An English club may travel to Israel for a Champions League match, with Maccabi Haifa competing for a spot in the group stage. They face FK Crvena zvezda (Red Star Belgrade) in the final qualifying round, with the first leg scheduled for Wednesday. Despite skepticism regarding why Israeli teams participate in European competitions, the reasoning derives from Israel’s long-standing involvement with Uefa.
Initially, Israel was affiliated with the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) and began competing in 1954. Complications arose as numerous Muslim countries refused to play against Israel due to the Arab League’s boycott, leading to Israel effectively qualifying for the 1958 World Cup without actual play. To address this issue, FIFA organized a playoff against Wales, which Israel unfortunately lost.
In 1964, Israel hosted and won the AFC Asian Cup, the only international title it has secured, although 11 of 16 nations withdrew. The nation successfully qualified for the 1970 World Cup but ended up last in a challenging group comprising Italy, Uruguay, and Sweden. In 1974, following a proposal by Kuwait, Israel was excluded from AFC competitions, with the vote passing 17 to 13.
In the early 1980s, Israel transitioned to European tournaments, including the 1982 World Cup qualifiers. It briefly participated in the Oceania group for the 1986 and 1990 World Cups. Israeli clubs engaged in European competitions starting in 1991 and became Uefa members in 1994, allowing them to compete in the Champions League and Europa League.
To date, seven Israeli clubs, notably Maccabi Haifa and Maccabi Tel Aviv, have partaken in the Champions League. Since joining Uefa, Israel has consistently participated in European competitions, reflecting its complex footballing history and the geopolitical factors that have influenced its representation in international tournaments.
Original Source: inews.co.uk
