Romania vs Israel prediction 09.09.2023

• Competition: EURO Qualifications
• Date: Saturday, 9th September 2023
• Kickoff: 19:45 UTC +1 / 20:45 CEST
• Venue: Arena Nationala (Bucharest)

Romania doesn't play regularly at the major tournaments. Their last was in 2016. Still, Romania are now in a very balanced group, so they can hope. After four rounds, Romania are second on the table with two points behind Switzerland. Edward Iordanescu's team are without a loss in the last five matches, including friendlies. In the previous game, Romania played 2-2 on the road against Switzerland. The home side had 67% ball possession and 11 shots more on the goal, but the guests still found their way to one point. 

Israel hasn't played at a major tournament since 1970. Still, after four rounds in the EURO 2024 qualifications, Israel are third with one point fewer than Romania. Israel have a reserve option for qualifications, as they secured at least a Nations League playoff. Of course, for Israel, it would be best to finish among the best two teams in the qualification group and avoid any playoffs. In the previous match, they won 2-1 at home against Andorra. Most expected a much better game from Israel, but in the end, it was the most important that they secured all three points. Now, Israel will have one of the crucial games of the qualifications in Bucharest. Avoiding defeat would be a huge for Alon Hazan's team. 

Romania vs Israel pick: Romania to win

Romania are playing well lately. They allowed only three goals in the last five matches. On the other hand, Israel won only two of the last nine road games. Romania should have an advantage in this match, they are better so I expect them to win versus Israel.