In a heartfelt tribute, Israel’s captain, Eli Dasa, exhibited the shoe of a young boy allegedly kidnapped by Hamas militants during a press conference preceding their Euro 2024 qualifier against Switzerland.
The emotional display aimed to draw attention to the human toll of the attacks that claimed around 1,200 lives on October 7.
The shoe, symbolizing the stark reality faced by victims, belonged to eight-year-old Nave Shoham from the Be’eri kibbutz.
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Fans Rally for Kidnapped Victims
During the Euro 2024 qualifier in Hungary, Israel’s supporters showcased unity by holding signs featuring the faces of those kidnapped by Hamas.
The match, held in Felcsut, witnessed Shon Weissman’s 88th-minute equalizer, resulting in a 1-1 draw with Switzerland.
Fans, some traveling from Israel, draped in flags and displayed placards, emphasizing the plea for the safe return of the kidnapped individuals.
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Challenges Amidst Qualifiers: Israel’s Unusual Campaign
Israel faced unique challenges in their Euro 2024 qualifying campaign, playing “home games” in Hungary due to security concerns.
The rescheduled match against Switzerland marked one of four games within nine days.
After a 1-0 loss to Kosovo, the team is set to confront Romania on Saturday and Andorra next Tuesday, navigating a demanding schedule in their pursuit of qualification
