1) Andreas (Andi) Herzog has been named Head Coach of the Israel National Team. The Austrian, served as an assistant coach for the United States National Team between 2011-2016 as well for Austria between 2008-2009. Herzog has also coached the US’s U23 side and Austria’s U21 squad. The attacking midfielder starred for Werder Bremen helping them to the Bundesliga title in 1992-93 while also appearing for Bayern Munich, Rapid Wien and the LA Galaxy scoring 104 goals in 468 appearances. Herzog played 103 matches for his country and scored 26 goals for Austria, four of which were against Israel.

The new Blue & White boss Herzog said following his appointment, “It’s a huge honor for me and a great opportunity to lead the Israel National Team as its Head Coach. I’m certain that I’ll receive support from the Football Association in order to continue to advance the National Team to success.”

Willi Ruttensteiner, the National Team’s Technical Director commented, “I know Herzog very well as both a player and coach of the Austrian and USA’s youth coach and as Jurgen Klinsmann’s assistant with the United States National Team. Herzog has a lot of passion in leading the Israel National Team in the near future and I’m convinced that he will contribute a lot.

2) Maccabi Tel Aviv FC will face Rsdnicki in Nis, Serbia in the second leg of second round Europa League qualifying on Thursday at 22:00 Israel time. Ahead of the contest the Club’s Serbian Head Coach Vladimir Ivic spoke to press saying, “I am familiar with the tough atmosphere here in Nis and there will be more the 15k people at the stadium. I am sure that my players will adapt.” Keeper Predrag Rajikovic as well a Serbian commented, “I have to admit that it’s a bit exciting for me to come here with a visiting club, but that’s part of football and I’m preparing for the match. I am a professional and I am obligated to be focussed for the game. I know that the first few minutes will certainly be difficult and the fans will push them forward so we will have play intelligently early on.”

Hapoel Haifa will also be in Europa League qualifying action when they visit FH in Iceland. The Carmel Reds will look to advance after drawing 1:1 at Sammy Ofer Stadium last week.

3) The Israel Under-18 National Basketball Team defeated Iceland 92-60 as Deni Avdija starred with 26 points and 9 rebounds. However, the win and a 4-1 group stage record was not enough to send the Blue & White into the quarterfinals as the Czech Republic and the Netherlands moved on.

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