Moldova — Israel : Match Preview and Prediction for September 05,2025

Moldova’s Current Qualification Struggle

In a stark contrast to their previous European Championship qualification campaign, where they surprisingly reached the playoffs, Moldova has experienced a significant downturn in their quest for the 2026 World Cup. Under coach Serghei Cleșcenco, the team’s chances of progressing through this qualifying round are already, effectively, non-existent. Currently, the Moldovans occupy the bottom spot in Group I, burdened by three consecutive defeats.

Recent Performances and Key Absences for Moldova

While heavy defeats to Norway (0-5 at home) and Italy (0-2 away) were somewhat anticipated given the strength of the opposition, the 2-3 home loss against Estonia in Chișinău raises more questions. Estonia is generally considered to be a team of comparable strength to Moldova. Unfortunately, for the hosts, this World Cup qualification cycle is quickly becoming a mere formality with little prospect of improvement. Adding to their challenges, Moldova will face Israel without their main forward, Ion Nicolaescu (due to suspension), and central defender Veaceslav Mudrac (due to injury), further weakening an already struggling side.

Israel’s Ambitious Campaign

Under the guidance of experienced coach Ran Ben Shimon, the Israeli national team has transformed into a dynamic and attacking unit, steadily gaining momentum thanks to a new wave of talented young players. The ‘Blue and Whites’ possess a genuine opportunity to qualify for the World Cup for only the second time in their history, a remarkable achievement if realized after a 56-year hiatus.

Israel’s Group Standing and Player Availability

The promising generation of Israeli talent, including the two Peretz’s, Oscar Gloukh, and Dor Turgeman, is proving highly influential. In the current World Cup qualifiers, Israel has secured two victories against Estonia (3-1 and 2-1) but suffered a 2-4 defeat to Norway on neutral ground in Debrecen. Currently, the visitors hold the second position in their group, feeling the pressure from the ‘Squadra Azzurra’ below them. Nevertheless, they maintain a crucial three-point advantage over Italy ahead of their direct encounters, which they aim to preserve after this match in Chișinău. However, Israel will be without Liel Abada, Abu Fani, Daniel Glazer, and Dia Saba for various reasons, impacting their squad depth for this encounter.