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Израиль ― Бельгия: превью

Israel thrash Belgium 9-0 in World Cup warm-up

Michy Batshuayi was sent off as Roberto Martinez's men suffered a chastening defeat

Belgium's preparations for the World Cup have been dealt a blow after they were thrashed 9-0 by Israel in a friendly in Jerusalem.

Michy Batshuayi was sent off for the visitors in the 20th minute and things went from bad to worse for Roberto Martinez's side as they shipped four goals before half-time.

Eran Zahavi scored a hat-trick for Israel, with Manor Solomon, Liel Abada, Shon Weissman, Mohammad Abu Fani and substitute Idan Vered also on target.

The result is Belgium's heaviest defeat since a 9-0 loss to Spain in 1969 and it will be a major concern for Martinez ahead of their World Cup opener against Canada on November 23.

Israel, meanwhile, will take confidence from the victory as they prepare for their own World Cup play-off against Scotland next month.

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“It was a very bad day for us,” said Martinez. “We made too many mistakes and we were punished by a very good Israeli team.

“We have to learn from this and make sure we are ready for the World Cup.

Israel coach Alon Hazan said: “I am very proud of my players. They played with great heart and determination.

“This is a great result for us and it gives us confidence for the play-off against Scotland.”