The amputee football team brings hope and international recognition to Israelis of all backgrounds, empowering them to recover and represent Israel proudly in domestic and overseas competitions.

Considered underdogs before the event, the Israeli squad displayed disciplined defense and strong attacking play to finish runner-up without conceding a goal, and Ben Maman won the top scorer title of the division.

Israel defeated Ukraine 2-0 and Belgium 5-0, and drew 0-0 versus the Netherlands and host Azerbaijan, ending the tournament with strong results but just short of the top spot, returning home proud of its performance.

Hamburg goalkeeper Daniel Peretz responded to the coach’s request and donated playing gear, with team member Tigran Chagava visibly moved upon receiving a glove.

With the goal of winning first place and advancing to Division Two in the Nations League, the team aims to deliver a strong performance against top European amputee football nations.

The team’s journey has been about much more than sport — it’s about hope, identity, and the belief that every challenge can become a chance to redefine what’s possible.

Coach Sharon Paz says, “We must be optimistic and believe that the attempt to expel us will fail and that our team will continue to make its mark in Europe,” as the squad gets ready to face the amputee teams of the Netherlands, Belgium, Ukraine, and Azerbaijan in the Nations League.

After winning a friendly tournament in Belgium earlier this summer, the team is entering a key preparation phase, determined to arrive at the Nations League ready to compete for first place and further establish its status in Europe.