Israel vs England
, KO: 17:00 Jul 5, 2023, Batumi Arena, Georgia
ENGLAND have what looks like a glorious chance to reach their first final of European Under 21s Championships since 2009 when they face Israel again in Batumi on Wednesday.
Lee Carsley's side have enjoyed a dream route to the semi-finals and have still yet to lose a goal in four games following their 1-0 success over Portugal in the quarter finals on Sunday.
This was by far the young Three Lions' biggest test though and they rode their luck for large spells in the second half when Portugal threw everything at the English only to be frustrated.
England have now won three games with a 2-0 score line as well as that narrow 1-0 win over the Portuguese.
And of course, one of those wins was a 2-0 victory against Israel Under 21s last week.
Israel broke the hearts of the home fans at the weekend when they beat shock troops Georgia on penalties after a goalless draw in the quarters.
In fact, they have only won one of their four games in 90 minutes, but are still enjoying their best-ever tournament.
England last reached the final in 2009, but remarkably haven't won this since 1984, but they have a great chance now to make history.
How the bookies view it
Unsurprisingly, England are firm favourites here at 2/5 with Coral.
Israel can be backed at a huge 8/1 with UniBet and the draw is 7/1 with bet365.
Recent head to heads
England won 2-0 in the groups stages as already stated and they enjoyed 68 per cent of possession in what was a one-sided encounter.
Players to watch
Anthony Gordon has been a bit of a Marmite figure at Newcastle United and that £40 million price tag has a long way to go before it's justified, but he's done well in this tournament and his winner against Portugal was his second of the Finals – his first was against Israel. He is 17/10 to score anytime with Paddy Power.
Dor Turgeman of Maccabi Tel Aviv netted against Germany in their first game. The striker is 5/1 to scorewith William Hill on Wednesday.
Anything else catch the eye?
With England too short to back unless you have very deep pockets, the obvious bet is yet another England to win to nil at 6/5 with BetVictor.
It came up for us on Sunday and Israel have only managed two goals in four games. England look very solid defensively and Manchester City keeper James Trafford could be untroubled again.
England look a cut above their opposition and they should have enough to win this half time and full time – which they have managed in three out of their four games so far – at 6/5 again and again with BetVictor.
This match between Israel and England will be played on Jul 5, 2023 and kick off at 17:00. Check below for our tipsters best Israel vs England prediction. You may also visit our dedicated betting previews section for the most up to date previews.
