Israel's volleyball team lost for the first time in the group stage of the European Championship held at the Shlomo Group Arena in Tel Aviv.The task was almost impossible, against one of the strongest teams in the world, France, which beat Israel 3:0 (25:21, 29:27, 25:17).
Itamar Stein's blue and white got a boost from the victories over Greece and Romania, and especially from an almost packed arena and fans who gave a boost all the way.
The team gave everything, photo: Oren Aharoni
Keep in mind that this is the first tournament the Blue and White have participated in for the first time since they did so in 1971 in Italy, when they finished in 12th place. Yes, we waited 52 years, until the team returned to its prestigious status, and that too happens in no small part thanks to the hospitality.
Everything will be concentrated for the key game of the tournament tomorrow (Sunday, 20pm), which may ultimately determine the promotion to the next level. Israel will meet Portugal and hope to secure a third victory when the group stage ends against strong Turkey (00.5, 9:20).
The top four in each group (out of 6) will advance to the eighth final to be held in Bulgaria, while in the decisive stages until the grand final the games will be played in four different cities across Italy.
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Israel national volleyball team against France, photo: Oren Aharoni
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