Israel was defeated 3-0 by Albania in a World Cup qualifying match in Haifa on Sunday night.
The Israeli team came into this home match having beaten Albania 3-0 in their last encounter and was looking to earn third spot in its qualifying group. It was the hot favorite to win the home game, but fell to a heavy defeat.
Israel had the first shot on goal, with Bibras Nacho’s shot tipped over the bar by Albanian goalkeeper Thoma Strakosha. But Armando Sadiku managed to put the ball past Israeli goalie David Goresh in the 22nd minute.
Sadiku scored again a minute from half time with a shot from 25 yards out.
In the second half, the Israel team kept the pressure on the Albanians, but was unable to get anything for it. Then Ledian Memushaj scored a third goal for the visitors with only a few minutes to go in the match.
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This result leaves Israel and Albania tied in third place in the group on 9 points, behind leaders Spain and Italy, each on 16 points. FYR Macedonia and Liechtenstein lie at the bottom of the table without a single point.
Israel’s next game is an away match against Macedonia in September.
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