After a standout performance in the Audi 2023 MLS Cup Playoffs, Sporting Kansas City midfielder Gadi Kinda has been called up to the Israel Men’s National Team as they enter a critical phase of UEFA Euro 2024 qualifying. With four crucial matches compressed into a ten-day window, Kinda’s international duty comes at a decisive moment for both his nation and club.
Israel Faces Challenging Euro Qualifying Schedule Amidst Regional Conflict
The ongoing war between Israel and Hamas has significantly impacted Israel’s Euro Qualifying campaign. Two scheduled matches in October were postponed, leading to a packed November international window. Now, Israel is set to play four crucial Euro qualifying games between November 12th and 21st. Due to the conflict within Israel and Palestine, their two home fixtures will be relocated to Pancho Arena in Felcsut, Hungary. This unprecedented situation adds another layer of complexity to Israel’s already challenging quest for Euro qualification.
Kinda will be available for these vital Euro qualifying matches before returning to Sporting Kansas City ahead of their significant Western Conference semifinal away game, scheduled for the weekend of November 25-26. This quick turnaround highlights the demanding schedule for Kinda, balancing club commitments with national team duties during this critical juncture of Euro qualifying.
Israel’s UEFA Euro 2024 Qualifying Schedule (All times 1:45 p.m. CT)
- Sunday, Nov. 12: at Kosovo | Fadil Vokrri Stadium, Prishtina
- Wednesday, Nov. 15: vs. Switzerland | Pancho Arena, Felcsut, Hungary
- Saturday, Nov. 18: vs. Romania | Pancho Arena, Felcsut, Hungary
- Tuesday, Nov. 21: at Andorra | Estadi Nacional, Andorra la Vella
Image alt text: Gadi Kinda in Israel national team jersey during a Euro qualifying match, showcasing his determination on the field.
Kinda’s Vital Role in Israel’s Euro Qualifying Ambitions
Israel has high hopes for Euro 2024 qualification, especially after achieving promotion to UEFA Nations League A for the 2024-25 season. Qualifying for the European Championship would be a historic milestone, marking their first appearance in the tournament since joining UEFA in 1994. Euro 2024 will feature 24 nations, with the top two teams from each of the ten qualifying groups securing automatic spots, alongside host nation Germany and three additional teams from a playoff stage.
Currently, Israel sits third in Group I of Euro qualifying. They are chasing leaders Romania and second-placed Switzerland, trailing by five and four points respectively. However, Israel holds games in hand due to the October postponements, giving them a chance to close the gap. As the Euro qualifying group stage concludes on November 21st, Israel faces three potential outcomes: automatic Euro 2024 qualification with a top-two finish, a playoff berth by finishing third, or elimination from the competition if they finish lower. Kinda’s contribution will be crucial in determining which path Israel will take in their Euro qualifying journey.
Kinda’s Excellent Form Boosts Israel’s Euro Qualifying Hopes
Gadi Kinda enters this crucial Euro qualifying period in excellent form, fresh off impressive performances in Sporting Kansas City’s playoff victories against St. Louis City SC. His dynamic midfield presence was instrumental in Sporting’s success, highlighted by a goal and two assists in a 4-1 win, followed by a game-winning assist in the series-clinching 2-1 victory. Kinda’s stellar play helped Sporting advance to the Western Conference semifinals and underscored his potential impact for Israel in their Euro qualifying efforts.
Image alt text: Gadi Kinda celebrating a goal for Sporting Kansas City, demonstrating his excellent form leading into Euro qualifying matches.
Kinda’s international experience includes five caps for Israel, with his most recent appearance in a FIFA World Cup qualifier in October 2021. He made a memorable debut, scoring a stunning long-range goal in a friendly win against Montenegro in June 2021. After a period away from the national team, Kinda rejoined the squad in September and was an unused substitute in two matches. Now, with his club form peaking, Kinda is poised to play a significant role in Israel’s Euro qualifying campaign.
Throughout his time with Sporting Kansas City since 2020, Kinda has amassed 16 goals and 20 assists in 79 appearances. Prior to joining MLS, he spent nine seasons in Israel’s top leagues. After overcoming a knee injury that sidelined him in 2022, Kinda has returned to top form in 2023, contributing significantly to Sporting’s season and now carrying that momentum into Euro qualifying for Israel.
Israel Aims for Historic Euro Qualification
For Israel and Gadi Kinda, these upcoming Euro qualifying matches represent a significant opportunity. The nation has never qualified for the European Championship since joining UEFA, and Euro 2024 presents a prime chance to break that streak. Kinda’s current form and experience will be vital assets as Israel navigates this challenging qualifying schedule. The outcome of these matches will determine whether Israel makes history by securing a spot in Euro 2024, advances to the playoffs, or sees their Euro qualifying dream end. The stakes are high, and Kinda is ready to contribute on the international stage.
