Israel and Moldova Clash in World Cup Qualifiers Final Match

CHIŞINĂU, Moldova — Israel‘s national soccer team is set to face Moldova on November 16, 2025, in their final match of the UEFA World Cup Qualifiers at Zimbru Stadium. Both teams are out of the running for World Cup qualification, but they are eager to secure a positive finish.

Israel enters the match undefeated in their past six encounters with Moldova, winning five of those games, including a decisive 4-0 victory earlier in the qualifying group. Coach Ran Ben Shimon highlighted the importance of taking the game seriously despite the lack of stakes. “You don’t choose when to take things seriously,” Ben Shimon said this week.

Missing from Israel’s lineup are key players Manor Solomon, Anan Khalaily, and Sagiv Yehezkel due to injuries. Moldova will also be without midfielder Nichita Motpan, while veteran Artur Ionita is expected to return after missing previous matches.

As the match approaches, Israel sits with 9 points, trailing behind Italy by 9 points in the group standings. The team aims to secure the third position in Group I, setting their sights on future qualifying opportunities. “We want to prepare well for the next qualifiers,” Ben Shimon added.

Moldova, in contrast, has only managed one point from seven matches, currently positioned at the bottom of the group. They will look to finish their campaign with a victory to boost morale.

This match is particularly significant for Israel, as it marks their ongoing quest for a return to the World Cup after last qualifying in 1970. They remain focused on improving their performance in future events.