Controversy Surrounds Israeli Captain Elly Dasa Amidst Match Victory in Estonia
Match Overview and Surrounding Events
On Friday, June 6, 2025, the Israeli national football team secured a significant 3-1 victory against Estonia in the qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup. However, alongside the jubilant atmosphere surrounding the match, an unusual controversy unfolded off the field prior to the encounter.
Investigations by Estonian Authorities
As tensions escalated in the lead-up to the game, Estonian authorities expressed intentions to question Elly Dasa, the captain of the Israeli team. This scrutiny was prompted by remarks Dasa made concerning the political climate in Russia. During a press conference preceding the match, he stated, “I am a moral person in my view, grateful for the years I spent in Russia, where I was treated well. I am proud to be an Israeli playing in Russia, and proud of my team.”
Dasa’s comments ignited backlash, leading to the Estonian Football Association investigating his statements. This investigation coincided with the appearance of a provocative banner in the stands, which prominently featured the letter “D” alongside bloodstains-a direct reference to Dasa’s club affiliation with Dynamo Moscow.
Response from the Israeli Football Association
The head of the Israeli Football Association, Shino Zohar, strongly condemned the actions taken against Dasa and demanded that his counterpart in Estonia denounce the incident. A Swiss observer noted the situation in his report, amplifying concerns over the matter.
Fortunately for Dasa, after discussions involving Zohar and the president of the Estonian Football Association, combined with intervention from FIFA, the local polstart eventually withdrew from the team’s hotel, alleviating the immediate pressure surrounding the player.
Match Day Atmosphere
During the match, Dasa was met with a hostile reception from the local crowd, who booed him every time he touched the ball. This outcry was partially a reflection of ongoing criticism in Estonia regarding Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Estonia has historical ties to Russia and remains sensitive to the geopolitical tensions stemming from this conflict.
The confrontation encapsulates the complex intersection of sports and politics, accentuating how global issues can penetrate the realm of athletics.
In conclusion, while the match resulted in a valuable win for Israel, the events surrounding Dasa highlight the challenges athletes may face related to international relations and societal perceptions