Israel to host Germany in commemorative football match
Israel have announced they will host Germany in a prestigious international friendly match in March, to mark 50 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
The IFA and DFB announced the date following a meeting between Israel’s Minister of Culture and Sports Limor Livnat and German Minister of the Interior Thomas de Maiziere.
IFA chairman Avi Luzon said: “The Israeli and German associations cooperate on many matters, we have an excellent relationship and I’m sure this match will be a great experience for the Israeli fans.”
Playing the Germans three days before hosting Wales in a Euro 2016 qualifier, Israel manager Eli Guttman said: “It’s a great honour and massive challenge to face one of the best teams in the world. I’m sure that everyone who comes to the match will enjoy some quality play.”
Saying the match is “another signal of the close ties between the two countries”, DFB president Wolfgang Niersbach said: “The match between the two teams is significant evidence of the excellent relations between both associations and both countries.”
The match will be played in either Jerusalem or Haifa. Germany have played in Israel twice before, winning both games, while Israel have lost twice in Germany, the most recent being a 2-0 defeat in May 2012.
Keep community journalism free.
Jewish News is free for everyone. No paywall. No barriers. Just trusted journalism for anyone who wants to stay connected to Jewish life in Britain.
If you value that, please support us.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help keep our journalism free and accessible to all.
Every day, we report on the issues that matter to our community. We celebrate achievements, support charities, challenge antisemitism and ensure Jewish voices are heard more widely.
From as little as £5 a month, you can help us continue to:
- Report on the stories shaping Jewish life in the UK and beyond
- Bring our community together through shared stories, events and campaigns
- Celebrate the people, culture and moments that define our community
- Support organisations doing vital work across Jewish Britain
You can make a one-off donation or become a regular supporter. Every contribution helps keep our journalism free, independent and accessible to all.
If everyone who values Jewish News gave a small amount, it would make a real difference to our future.
