Israel unites behind young stars

Israel's young stars are revelling in new-found celebrity after defying all expections to beat the mighty France and qualify for the UEFA European Under-21 Championship for the first time. The celebrations have continued non-stop since the final whistle at the Herzeliya Municipal Stadium on Wednesday confirmed their play-off success.

Premier call
From attracting a total following of two parents for their first Group 13 qualifying match against Wales on neutral ground in the Netherlands in August, the U21s have become the pride of an entire nation; prime minister Ehud Olmert even phoned coach Guy Levy after the 1-0 midweek win secured a 2-1 aggregate defeat of France. The U21s, who were virtual unknowns to all but the most ardent Israeli football fans, have captured the imagination, their young faces being plastered across the front pages of national newspapers and their feats celebrated on television news programmes and talk shows.

French resistance
Omer Peretz, who returned to his homeland from a three-season spell at RC Strasbourg two years ago to complete his military service, enjoyed the victory more than most. "As someone who played in France, this is a special moment," the striker said. "The French never gave us a chance and we made them pay for that mistake. After knocking out the French, no one will disrespect us in future."

'Sky is the limit'
Defender Moshe Shai Maymon of Maccabi Herzliya FC, whose father constituted 50 per cent of the supporter base against Wales, said: "It's a once-in-a-lifetime experience. We knew that with the phenomenal support we had in the stadium, and all of those fans watching us at home, there was no chance we would blow it. Our aim is to reach the Olympic Games in Beijing. If we can beat France, the sky is the limit."

'Massive smile'
Toto Tamuz also had reason to feel pleased with himself. Last Saturday, he starred for the senior side by setting up the equaliser in an excellent 1-1 UEFA EURO 2008™ draw in Russia. On Wednesday, he then played a pivotal role in Amir Taga's winning goal which propelled the U21s to next summer's finals. "I've experienced a huge week and I wish everyone could experience something similar," the forward said. "I woke up this morning with a massive smile on my face. Nothing and no one has the power to remove it."