Israel Defeats Cyprus and Advances in World Cup Qualifiers

In a week filled with tension back home, Israel’s national basketball team delivered a powerful moment of unity and pride on the court.

Israel defeated Cyprus 83–54 on Sunday night in Limassol, completing a dominant sweep of the two-game World Cup qualifying window and securing its place in the next stage of qualification.

After a commanding 94–54 victory on Friday, Ariel Beit Halachmi’s squad once again took control early. Adam Ariel, Roman Sorkin, and Idan Zalmanson set the tone with aggressive offense and disciplined defense, helping Israel build a 45–29 halftime lead.

From there, the blue-and-white never looked back.

Netanel Artzi, Tamir Blatt, and Zalmanson continued to stretch the advantage in the second half, closing out a 29-point win that showcased both depth and composure.

With the victory, Israel improved to 2–2 in Group E and clinched advancement to the second stage of World Cup qualifying. Croatia currently leads the group at 4–0, while Germany also sits at 2–2 but holds the head-to-head edge over Israel from the first window.

On Sunday, Ariel, Zalmanson, and Sorkin each scored 13 points to pace the balanced attack. Cyprus was led by Filippos Tigkas with 15 points and Simon Michail with 13.

Head coach Ariel Beit Halachmi acknowledged that facing the same opponent twice in quick succession posed challenges.

“It’s very hard to play two games against the same team in a short time like this,” he said. “We didn’t play our best, but we came away with a pair of wins, and that is what is most important.”

For the players, however, this window meant more than just standings.

Guard Joaquin Szuchman, returning to national team action after several years, described the emotional weight of representing Israel during a difficult period.

“It was a great experience to come back to the national team,” he said. “We want to send our prayers and support to the IDF and the entire nation of Israel during this time.”

Adam Ariel echoed those sentiments, revealing how deeply connected the team felt to supporters at home.

“We had mixed feelings; we knew we had to finish the job here,” he said. “We got so many messages from people back home about how important this game was for them. We wanted to represent the country with pride.”

That pride was evident throughout the two games. Even away from home, the players carried the responsibility of wearing Israel across their chests with dignity and focus.

Sport has long been a source of strength and unity for Israel. In moments of uncertainty, victories on the international stage remind the nation and the world of the determination, talent, and spirit that define Israeli athletes.

Advancing to the next stage of World Cup qualifying is more than a competitive milestone. It is a symbol of perseverance and national unity.

Israel continues to excel in culture, sport, and innovation, even in challenging times. Share this uplifting story and subscribe to our newsletter to stay connected to the inspiring achievements of the Jewish state.