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UEFA EUropEAn UndEr-21 ChAmpionship 2013 5-18 June Official prOgramme trademarks of the Group. d re te nitrocharge gis re e Stripes mark ar your game 3- go and the lo s

Dominate the distance, jump higher, tackle harder. Bar Feel the energy behind the engine: adidas nitrocharge. 3- adidas.com/football adidas, the AG. 2013 adidas © Contents 26 5 UEFA President’s message 7 Welcome to Israel 8 The contenders 10 Interview: Nir Biton 12 On the rise 15 Group A 17 Israel profile 18 England profile 20 Norway profile 22 Italy profile 10 25 Match schedule 26 Campeones, campeones 29 Stadiums 30 32 History: in their words 36 Qualifying results and tables 38 Numbers Flashback 2006 41 Goup B 12 42 Spain profile 44 Netherlands profile 54 46 Russia profile 48 profile 50 Finishing school 53 Match ball competition 54 Israel travel 56 Match officials 58 Facts and figures

Editor: Michael Harrold Design: Iain Green (Haymarket) Designed and produced by Haymarket Network on Contributors: Eivind Aare, Sam Adams, Jim Agnew, Photography: AFP, Bob Thomas Sports, Bongarts, behalf of UEFA. Kevin Ashby, Paul Bryan, Chris Burke, Mark Chaplin, Flash Press, FPF, Getty Images, Børre Eirik Helgerud, Boaz Goren, Patrick Hart, Simon Hart, Andrew Jaroslav Hoffmann, IFA, NFF, Popperfoto, RFEF, ©UEFA 2013. All rights reserved. The UEFA word, Haslam, Martyn Hindley, Guillermo G. Honrubia, Ronald Bonestroo Fotografie, Sportsfile, Thinkstock, the UEFA European Under-21 Championship logo Paolo Menicucci, Mark Pettit, Evgeni Ravdin, UEFA Photos. and trophy are protected by trade marks and/or Berend Scholten, Oleg Sokol, Graham Turner, copyright of UEFA. No use for commercial purposes Jim Wirth. may be made of such trade marks.

3 Respect A4.indd 1 4/12/13 2:04 PM UEFA President’s message

On behalf of UEFA, it is my pleasure to welcome you to the 2013 UEFA European Under-21 Championship final tournament here in Israel.

This competition is an important bridge between youth and senior football and the experience the players gain over the next fortnight will prove invaluable as they embark on careers in the international game. It is a privilege to watch some of Europe’s top young players in action at this stage of their development and we will follow their progress with interest in the years ahead.

This is the first time since the 2000 UEFA European Under-16 Championship that UEFA has staged a final tournament in Israel, and my thanks go to the Israel Football Association (IFA), its president Avi Luzon and the four host cities for the efforts they have put in to help organise what promises to be a superb competition.

We expect the tournament to be played with respect and in a spirit of fair play – and may the best team win! Michel Platini UEFA President

This competition is“ דברי נשיא אופ”א. an important bridge בשם אופ”א זהו העונג שלי לארח אתכם בטורניר גמר אליפות אירופה עד גיל 21 של between youth and אופ”א לשנת 2013 כאן בישראל. ”senior football התחרות היא גשר חשוב לכדורגלן הצעיר אל הכדורגל המקצועני והחוויה לשחקנים היא משהו שלא יסולא בפז. המשחקים יוכיחו את עצמם בעתיד, כששחקנים אלו יפרצו אל עולם הכדורגל הבינלאומי. זאת זכות לראות שחקנים צעירים מהטופ של אירופה בפעולה בשלב הזה של ההתפתחות שלהם ונעקוב אחרי תהליך ההתבגרות שלהם בעניין רב בשנים הבאות.

זאת הפעם הראשונה מאז אליפות אירופה עד גיל 16 של אופ”א בשנת 2000 שהארגון בחר בישראל לאירוח טורניר הגמר ותודתי מופנית לנשיא התאחדות הכדורגל הישראלית, אבי לוזון ולערים המארחות על המאמץ שהם השקיעו כדי לעזור ולארגן את מה שלבטח יהפוך לתחרות נפלאה.

אנו מצפים שהטורניר ישוחק עם כבוד וברוח המשחק ההוגן – מי ייתן והקבוצה הטובה ביותר תנצח! מישל פלטיני נשיא אופ”א

5 לאהוב את המשחק TMM , ללאהוב אהוב את החיים TMM Welcome to Israel

I am excited and proud to host the 19th UEFA European Under-21 European Championship here in Israel. Along with the host cities of , , , and , I can promise you a unique and joyful football experience in our beautiful country.

Hosting the tournament is significant not only for Israeli football, but also for the state of Israel, which has recognised it as a national event, and is proud to introduce you to our warm and modern homeland. I’d like to thank sports minister Limor Livnat for her support, along with the mayors of our four host cities for their cooperation and contribution to the success of the tournament.

As I look ahead to kick-off in the opening match, I’m proud of all the intensive, hard work that began exactly four years ago when we were chosen to host this tournament. Since that day, great and thorough work has been done, and the results can be seen in the stadiums and the stands, as well as in what will unfold during the tournament.

The Israel Football Association (IFA), along with the local organising committee, has set a goal of having full stadiums throughout the tournament. Several promotional and public relations events have taken place in the host cities, and we have also established relationships with schools and other organisations to bring football into every home in Israel and enable every child to experience this wonderful game.

I’d like to thank UEFA President Michel Platini and the UEFA Executive Committee once more for their faith and support in allowing Israel to host this competition. I wish us all a successful and joyful tournament. “I can promise Avi Luzon Israel Football Association president you a unique and joyful football experience in our ”beautiful country ברוכים הבאים לישראל אני נרגש וגאה לארח את היורו לנבחרות צעירות עד גיל 21 של אופ”א פה בישראל. יחד עם הערים המארחות- ירושלים, נתניה, פתח תקווה ותל-אביב, אני יכול להבטיח חוויה מיוחדת וכדורגל שמח במדינתנו היפה.

אירוח הטורניר הוא חשוב לא רק לכדורגל הישראלי, אלא גם למדינת ישראל, שהכירה בתחרות כאירוע לאומי, וגאה להציג בפניכם את מולדתנו החמה והמודרנית. אני רוצה גם להודות לשרת התרבות והספורט, לימור לבנת, על תמיכתה, יחד עם ארבעת ראשי הערים המארחות, על שיתוף הפעולה והתרומה להצלחת הטורניר.

כשאנחנו לקראת הבעיטה הראשונה של משחק הפתיחה אני גאה בעבודה האינטנסיבית שהחלה בדיוק לפני ארבע שנים כשנבחרנו לארח את הטוניר. מאז אותו יום עבודה מקיפה ורחבה נעשתה ואת תוצאותיה ניתן לראות באצטדיונים וביציעים בנוסף למה שעוד יתרחש בטורניר עצמו.

התאחדות הכדורגל הישראלית, יחד עם הוועדה המארגנת, הציבה לעצמה מטרה למלא את היציעים לאורך הטורניר כולו. אירועי יחסי ציבור וקידום הטורניר התקיימו בערים המארחות, ונוצרו קשרים עם בתי ספר ואירגונים שונים על מנת להביא את חווית הכדורגל לכל בית בישראל ולאפשר לכל ילד להנות מהמשחק הנהדר הזה.

אני רוצה להודות לנשיא אופ”א, מישל פלטיני ולוועד הפועל פעם נוספת על האמונה והתמיכה בנו בכך שאיפשרו לישראל לארח את התחרות הזאת.

אני מאחל לכולנו טורניר מוצלח ומהנה. אבי לוזון, יו”ר ההתאחדות לכדורגל בישראל.

7 Meet the teams

The contenders The lowdown on the eight sides vying for the 2013 Under-21 title

1 England 3 Israel Experience tells Hosts expect With The hosts have appeared in one previous (right) at the helm for final tournament – in 2007 – and after 6 a fourth straight final a successful run of friendlies last year tournament – and are hopeful of improving on that debut Danny Rose performance, which consisted of three eligible to play defeats. Guy Luzon leads a side who in his third – will play in new stadiums and as England are ambassador said: “It’s sure not lacking any to be quite an occasion for a country experience at that has never before hosted a major an event usually international football tournament.” earmarked as a 5 great chance to 4 Italy gain it. Finalists in holders 1 2009 and semi-final In the play-offs for the 2011 final shoot-out losers tournament, Italy were 2-0 up after the two years before first leg against Belarus, but came undone that, the Young Lions in Borisov. They took an even narrower may feel this is their lead to last October, but this time chance for a first held firm, seeing off a late surge from their title since 1984. opponents to banish the bad memories of three years ago. A talented squad can now start thinking about adding to the Azzurrini’s record haul of five titles.

2 Germany Heavyweights return Winners in 2009, Rainer Adrion’s team did not even reach the play-offs in defending 8 their trophy, but made up for lost time by qualifying in emphatic fashion for Israel. Germany hit 43 goals as they swept all before them, and now talents like , and Maximilian Beister will be looking to follow in the footsteps of , Mesut Özil and here – and beyond. 5 Netherlands Past pedigree The Jong Oranje have missed out on the last two tournaments, but the 2006 and 2007 winners know what it takes to get the job done at this level and ’s team – bar a brief hiccup at home to Scotland – comfortably topped their group before coasting past Slovakia in the play-offs. With several players also boasting senior experience, the Netherlands will be a match for all-comers in Israel. 8 Official Programme 2013 6 Norway Surprise, surprise While the 2011 final tournament featured the likes of Iceland and Belarus, this has seen the return of some of Europe’s traditional powerhouses, including Germany and the Netherlands. However, bucking this trend have been a stylish Norway side, who troubled England in the group stage before shocking France with 7 an incredible performance in the play-offs, putting five past Les Bleuets in Drammen to overturn a deficit from the away leg. 7 Russia Point to prove The Under-21s is a competition in which Russia have struggled to make their mark in recent years, and nerves may have started to jangle after a blistering start to qualifying stuttered towards its conclusion. Nevertheless, powered by Fedor Smolov’s 2 goals, they topped their group and although Nikolai Pisarev’s side were given further scares by the Czech Republic in the play-offs, they held on to secure a first final tournament appearance since 1998. 8 Spain Back for more The defending champions won nine and drew one of their ten games in the qualifying process. They emphatically swept aside 2011 4 hosts Denmark 8-1 on aggregate in the play-offs and, in SL Benfica’s Rodrigo (left), have the competition’s top scorer. His 11 goals have spearheaded a challenge which was unaffected by a change of management midway through the campaign, with new coach Julen Lopetegui lauding his squad’s 3 “personality, character and conviction”.

9 interview

10 Official Programme 2013 Nir Biton The Israel captain is expecting his nation to shine, both on and off the pitch

ew players can be relishing kick-off excited. Things like that Barcelona and I try to learn at the 2013 UEFA European Under-21 don’t normally happen in the clean and simple game Championship more than Nir Israel. I think it will improve from him. Biton. Not only is the Israel captain Israel’s image in the football Fdetermined to lead by example as the hosts world. I believe it will be an How can Israeli football take on Europe’s finest in front of their own excellent tournament – and benefit from staging this fans, he is also thrilled by the prospect of may the best team win. tournament? a tournament that will propel his country First of all, there’s the media “a step forward to a place we’ve never What does it mean to you exposure Israeli football been”. Expectations are high in the home to captain the side at the will get. Reporters from all nation, but the tall box-to-box FC Ashdod final tournament? over the world will come is ready for the challenge, It’s a huge honour to be the Nir Biton here, and a lot of scouts having already been capped by Israel’s Israeli captain, no matter Born: 30/10/1991 from across Europe. There senior team and proved his ability to excel what age group. I know I Position: Midfielder will be huge exposure in both defensive and attacking areas. have a lot of responsibility Club: FC Ashdod for all the Israeli players, Senior Israel debut: and big expectations, but 26 May 2010 v Uruguay the association and our How have Israel’s preparations for the we’re a team and each one country. I really believe this finals gone? of us knows he has to bring tournament will take Israel We’ve been preparing for a long time. 200% in order to make it work. I’m just the a step forward to a place we’ve never been. Things weren’t smooth at the start and we player that people can come and talk to, We hope not to disappoint. didn’t play the football we’re playing today. and ask for advice from. Slowly our skills and quality showed and It is sure to be an emotional moment I think you could see after the friendlies You have already been capped at senior when you lead your side out for the first against Germany and the Netherlands that level. How will that experience help you game. What will that mean to you? we’re ready, even though we lost. with the U21s? It will be the top moment for me – to lead Every experience you get in life gives you the team onto the pitch as captain and What are your thoughts on Israel’s strength. When I played with the full hear the Israeli national anthem in the Group A rivals England, Italy and Norway? Israel team, I gained more experience and background, in our country, in this big It’s an eight-team tournament, so no confidence, and that shows in my game. tournament. It will be unforgettable and I’ll team is below the highest level. Norway I’m much more responsible and disciplined keep it with me forever. beat France in the play-offs and Italy and now. I do things I never did before. England don’t need any introduction, do What can people expect at the final they? We’re ready to battle in every match. Which player has had the biggest tournament in Israel? influence on the way you play? Good football, a warm and welcoming What will be the key to Israel having a [Sergio] Busquets at Barcelona – I’ve country, beautiful beaches and much successful tournament? been studying him. We have the same more. It’s a wonderful opportunity for Desire, determination and sacrifice are what type of build; I really love him as a player. those who don’t know Israel to come and we need in order to bridge the gap between Sometimes he’s not appreciated enough. see and experience where we live. I believe ourselves and the rest of the teams. If we He plays in the most critical position for no one is likely to leave disappointed. have that and play together, you’ll see what Barcelona, linking attack and defence, and They will have a lot of fun and will want to we’re capable of. does an extraordinary job. People look at come back again. In terms of football, [Lionel] Messi, [Hernández] and [David] they will find new stadiums, a great How far can Israel go? Villa etc, but in my opinion Busquets is atmosphere and I believe they will It wouldn’t be wise to guess. All I can say is one of the most important players for enjoy a top-class tournament. that reaching the semi-finals would be an amazing achievement. We’ll aim to go as far as possible. “I really believe this tournament will take

How did you feel when Israel were Israel a step forward” selected to host the final tournament? I remember the evening they told us it was going to happen – I was so happy and

11 player watch

Luuk De Jong Lewisb Holt y Netherlands Germany

De Jong has sport in his Holtby gives Germany genes – his parents were valuable experience – Dutch internationals notably of the UEFA Champions while his brother Siem is the League with FC Schalke 04 and current AFC Ajax captain more recently of the Premier – and his own career has League with Tottenham developed impressively since Hotspur FC – yet he brings much his 2008 league debut with more besides, starting with his . He blossomed tactical cleverness. Though a natural central midfielder, the 22-year-old can fulfil both De Jong’s defensive and attacking duties parents and is a key component in Germany’s transition game. As were Dutch well as being technically gifted, he is calm under pressure and volleyball his mental strength should help Germany in a tough group. internationals The brain of the team on the in three years at FC Twente, pitch, he also has an easy-going scoring 39 goals in 75 personality which makes him a outings and collecting a Dutch Tasrar Bu lak popular figure off it. M oANES Dabbur championship winners’ medal, Russia Israel before heading to VfL Borussia Mönchengladbach last summer. A striker turned defender, Dabbur began his career A fine all-round attacker, he is Vladivostok-born Burlak with Maccabi Ahi Nazareth hard-working, good in the air, joined the FC Lokomotiv FC, his home-town team, before keeps hold of the ball and has a Moskva academy in 2003, joining Maccabi Tel-Aviv FC nose for goal. The 22-year-old working his way up to the first at 17. His potential became was in the Netherlands’ squad team and making his top-flight immediately apparent and by for UEFA EURO 2012. debut with the club 19 he was a first-team regular in 2010 after a spell on loan at for Israel’s most successful FC Volga Nizhni Novgorod the club. Now 21, he has an innate previous year. A regular starter knack of being in the right place for Lokomotiv in the 2011/12 at the right time – a priceless campaign, the tall centre-back quality in a forward, which was included in a list of the top helped him score eight Premier 33 Premier-Liga players of the League goals for Maccabi in season. Burlak has captained 2011/12 and ten more as they Russia’s U21 side and took his won the Israeli title in 2012/13. senior bow in June 2011 – an With four strikes in Israel’s indication, perhaps, that the pre-tournament friendlies, he 23-year-old will be a regular should be an attacking talisman fixture by the time Russia for Guy Luzon’s charges. hosts the 2018 FIFA World Cup. On the rise

12 Official Programme 2013 Ddavi De Gea W ilfrIED ZaHA Spain England

The Manchester United Zaha may have had FC goalkeeper made two previous seasons his professional debut for of first-team football with former team Club Atlético de second-division Crystal Palace Madrid in 2009, coming on as FC, but this has been the a substitute as an 18-year-old campaign where the 20-year- in a UEFA Champions League old really made his name in encounter away to FC Porto. English football. Blessed with Described as being “as cool electrifying speed and exciting as a wolf” between the posts, ball skills, the Ivory Coast-born the Spain captain enjoyed H armeet SiNGH winger earned his first senior his first international success Norway England against Sweden at the 2007 UEFA European last November and two months Under-17 Championship and A technically later agreed a summer move played a crucial role in La accomplished midfielder to Manchester United FC. Rojita’s triumph at the U21 final of Indian descent, Singh made His first U21 goal followed in tournament two years ago. At his league debut aged 18 for March when he excelled in an club level, De Gea can already Vålerenga Fotball. With his unfamiliar lone-forward role boast UEFA Europa League, passing flair and capacity to get against Romania – and England UEFA Super Cup and English forward, he caught the eye of can only benefit from his pace titles. clubs abroad and last summer, and prodigious ability to take on and beat a man. Italy Singh saved Small in size yet big in his best for ability, Insigne probably expected more from his first full last, scoring campaign at SSC Napoli after returning to his home-town club in the play-off from productive loan seasons with US Foggia and Pescara against France Calcio – but if not a regular after 100 top-flight outings in starter in 2012/13 he still scored Norway, moved to Dutch side some crucial goals. A creative . The 22-year-old has ‘fantasista’-type, he can run at so far struggled to secure a first- defences and for the Azzurrini team place in but does so from the left of Devis played a vital part in Norway’s Mangia’s three-man attack. qualification for Israel. He made Insigne, 22, combines well with ten appearances and arguably , his old team- reserved his best for the thrilling mate at Pescara in 2011/12, 5-3 play-off second-leg win and shone in the pre-finals against France, opening the friendlies, setting up the winner scoring from the penalty spot against Germany and scoring in the match that booked himself against Russia. Norway’s passage.

Every Under-21 tournament offers a priceless glimpse of stars in the making – here are eight players who could illuminate this summer’s event

13

Group A Israel/England/Norway/Italy

From left to right: (England), Luca Marrone (Italy), Valon Berisha (Norway), Eyal Golasa (Israel)

Old rivals meet again England and Italy out to make experience tell

Two of the UEFA European Under-21 2007 group stage when they played out an when Stuart Pearce’s side recorded home Championship’s most successful sides engrossing 2-2 draw. Prior to that Italy ran and away victories. Norway and Italy, meet again in Group A, but while England out winners in the 2002 and 2000 group meanwhile, have two competitive wins and Italy boast a wealth of experience at stages, scoring in the latter against the other including a 6-0 Norwegian this level, hosts Israel and Norway are each game en route to helping his side lift the success in Stavanger in June 1991. Israel appearing in the final tournament for just trophy. They have also played one another have never played a competitive fixture the second time. twice in the semi-finals, winning one apiece, against Norway or England – and have taken Old rivals England and Italy have with England taking the title in 1984 after on Italy only twice, in the play-offs for the met no fewer than 12 times, with the beating Italy in the last four. 2009 final tournament when a 3-1 defeat Azzurrini holding the upper hand in recent England and Norway are well acquainted at Tel Aviv’s saw them encounters. The teams last faced off in the too, having met in qualifying for this event eliminated by the same scoreline.

15 Group A Israel/England/Norway/Italy Israel

Hosts Israel are taking part in their can do great things, otherwise I coach second Under-21 final tournament would not be here.” after their 2007 debut in the Even without , the Guy Luzon Netherlands, where they bowed talented Spain-based youngster Born: 07/08/1975 out following the group stage. Guy who was a late withdrawal from the Luzon was only 21 when injury Luzon’s side have contested 13 squad, Luzon evidently possesses ended his playing career at friendlies since overcoming Belarus players who can make an impact, Maccabi Petach-Tikva FC. He 2-1 in November 2010, and they had starting with highly rated goalkeeper became their Under-19 coach and to take a few backward steps before Boris Kleyman and his captain and then guided the senior side to the any signs of progress – losing five of midfielder, Nir Biton. Up front, 2004 Israeli and into the six games in 2011, including a 4-1 Orr Barouch shone after being 2005/06 UEFA Cup group stage. defeat by England. Their fortunes called up midway through the run The nephew of Israel Football improved notably in 2012, however, of friendlies, hitting five goals in Association (IFA) president Avi with victories against Ukraine (4-0), nine outings. His regular partner in Luzon, he also had spells in Belgium (4-1) and Belarus (2-0), plus Luzon’s preferred 4-4-2 is Moanes charge of Tel-Aviv FC and a 2-2 draw with Russia. Dabbur, who got four and helped Bnei Yehuda Tel-Aviv FC, before They began this year with a set up a significant number more, taking charge of the Under-21s goalless stalemate against Serbia giving hope that the class of 2013 in August 2010. and subsequently suffered 2-1 will at least find the opposition net – losses to both Germany and the something that proved beyond their Netherlands, although those two 2007 counterparts who left encounters in front of big home the Netherlands empty-handed. crowds showed Luzon that the level of their tournament rivals was “not scary” after all. “We want to continue the progress we have made as a football nation,” he said. “Hosting The hosts are confident the tournament is important, but of giving home fans now we must understand that expectations are high. I believe we reason to cheer

16 Official Programme 2013 Best performance Group A Matches Group stage in 2007 5 June v Norway, Netanya Last final tournament appearance 8 June v Italy, Tel Aviv 2007 (group stage) 11 June v England, Jerusalem

Players

Under-21 Competition Date of Birth Apps/goals Apps/goals Club

Goalkeepers Boris Kleyman 26/10/1990 17/0 5/0 Hapoel Tel-Aviv FC Barak Levi 07/01/1993 0/0 0/0 Maccabi Tel-Aviv FC Ram Strauss 28/04/1992 0/0 0/0 Maccabi Ahi Nazareth FC Arie Yanko 21/12/1991 0/0 0/0 Hakoah Amidar FC

Defenders AIyad Abu Abaid 31/12/1994 0/0 0/0 Beitar Tubruk FC Omri Ben Harush 07/03/1990 17/0 2/0 Maccabi Netanya FC Eliazer Dasa 03/12/1992 12/0 0/0 Beitar Jerusalem FC Ofir Davidadza 05/09/1991 12/0 0/0 Hapoel Beer Sheva FC Sari Falah 22/11/1991 16/0 0/0 Maccabi FC Edi Gotlib 16/08/1992 3/0 0/0 Hapoel Akko FC Ido Levi 31/07/1990 11/0 0/0 Maccabi Netanya FC Moshe Lugassi 04/02/1991 16/0 0/0 Maccabi Tel-Aviv FC Gal Mayo 30/07/1991 4/0 0/0 Hapoel Tel-Aviv FC 21/06/1992 6/0 0/0 Maccabi Haifa FC interview Ben Vahaba 27/03/1992 4/0 0/0 Hapoel Beer Sheva FC Guy Luzon Omer Vered 25/01/1990 8/1 0/0 Maccabi Tel-Aviv FC Ofer Verta 23/05/1990 9/0 0/0 FC Ashdod “Our guys are very serious and committed. This is the most important factor and every Omri Altman 23/03/1994 5/1 0/0 Fulham FC Gai Assulin 09/04/1991 22/0 8/0 Real Racing Club Santander game we play, we will be ready. Ahed Azzam 14/01/1992 8/0 0/0 Hapoel Haifa FC This tournament features the Nir Biton 30/10/1991 17/1 2/0 FC Ashdod best European teams, except Ben Butbul 22/05/1990 9/0 0/0 FC Ashdod for France. We are not in the Eyal Golasa 07/10/1991 16/1 3/0 Maccabi Haifa FC top category in Europe and the Marwan Kabha 23/02/1991 12/0 0/0 Maccabi Petah Tikva FC teams coming here have an Ofir Krieff 17/03/1991 4/0 0/0 Beitar Jerusalem FC advantage over us in quality, but 02/03/1992 7/0 0/0 Maccabi Tel-Aviv FC we will try to reduce it through Sintayehu Sallalich 20/06/1991 10/1 0/0 Hapoel Kiryat Shmona FC organisation and team spirit. Israel Zaguri 29/01/1990 5/0 0/0 Hapoel Ramat Gan FC Each player in our team can make Forwards his colleagues look better. If we Ahmed Abed 30/03/1990 4/0 0/0 Hapoel Kiryat Shmona FC are the most organised team Orr Barouch 29/11/1991 9/5 0/0 Bnei Yehuda Tel-Aviv FC in the tournament, we will play Moanes Dabbur 14/05/1992 12/4 0/0 Maccabi Tel-Aviv FC good football. As long as we do Omer Fadida 17/07/1990 0/0 0/0 Hapoel Kfar Saba FC that, we will achieve our goal and Shoval Gozlan 25/04/1994 0/0 0/0 Maccabi Haifa FC the results will come. For us the Mohammad Kalibat 15/06/1990 15/4 0/0 Bnei FC whole is bigger than the sum of Feras Magharbeh 24/07/1991 6/0 0/0 Maccabi Netanya FC Alon Turgeman 09/06/1991 7/0 0/0 Maccabi Haifa FC its parts. I believe in these players. I chose them first of all for their Initial 40-man selection; see UEFA.com for the official 23-man final tournament squad personality, and of course, for their talent. I am sure that for our games the crowd will fill the stadium and push us on, but in the end we are the ones who should be doing it on the pitch and the Number crowd will respond to that.” “The crowd will fill the one stadiums and Defeats against the Netherlands (0-1), Belgium (0-1) and (0-4) at the 2007 final tournament mean Israel are still seeking their push us on” first goal and first point at this stage of the competition.

17 Group A Israel/England/Norway/Italy England

England arrive in Israel on the back of talents to slot into his preferred coach an unprecedented sequence of nine 4-2-3-1 formation, including wingers straight victories, raising hopes of a Tom Ince, son of former England Stuart Pearce first Under-21 title since 1984. After captain Paul, and new Manchester Born: 24/04/1962 starting their Group 8 qualifying United FC signing . Pearce came from non-league programme with four wins, they With his side unbeaten for 19 football to become one of the suffered a setback when losing 2-1 months, Pearce undoubtedly has world’s leading left-backs, winning in Belgium back in November 2011. cause for confidence entering his 78 caps and helping England However, they responded by fourth U21 final tournament in reach the 1990 FIFA World overcoming the same opponents 4-0 charge, but he knows the hard work Cup and EURO ‘96 semi-finals. in their next fixture, sparking a record all remains to be done. The Londoner’s first coaching winning streak that includes two 1-0 “There are some good sides going experience came in a brief spell successes against Serbia in the to this tournament,” said the man as caretaker player-boss at play-offs and friendly victories this who led England to the runners-up Nottingham Forest FC. After year against Sweden (4-0), Romania spot at Sweden 2009. “We have retiring aged 40, he became a (3-0) and Austria (4-0). had some consistent results, but my coach at Manchester City FC, Captain feet are firmly on the ground and so holding the reins as manager was the mainstay of the side are the players’.” from 2005 to 2007, when he took in qualifying, the FC charge of England’s Under-21s. midfielder not missing a single game and earning himself England’s U21 player of the year award for 2012 in the process. Other eye-catching contributions came from goalkeeper , instrumental in the team’s run of nine successive clean sheets, and centre-back , the unlikely five-goal top England are back for scorer of their qualifying campaign. the fourth successive Further upfield, coach Stuart Pearce has a cluster of exciting final tournament

18 Official Programme 2013 Best performance Group A Matches Winners in 1982, 1984 5 June v Italy, Tel Aviv Last final tournament appearance 8 June v Norway, Petah Tikva 2011 (group stage) 11 June v Israel, Jerusalem

Players

Qualifying Competition Date of Birth Apps/goals Apps/goals Club

Goalkeepers Ben Amos 10/04/1990 1/0 7/0 Manchester United FC Jack Butland 10/03/1993 8/0 8/0 Stoke City FC Declan Rudd 16/01/1991 0/0 2/0 Norwich City FC 05/03/1990 0/0 1/0 Huddersfield Town AFC Jason Steele 18/08/1990 1/0 8/0 Middlesbrough FC

Defenders Nathan Baker 23/04/1991 1/0 2/0 Aston Villa FC 29/12/1991 6/2 6/2 Tottenham Hotspur FC 12/12/1994 0/0 0/0 Chelsea FC 05/04/1991 3/0 4/0 Southampton FC Craig Dawson 06/05/1990 9/5 9/5 West Bromwich Albion FC Michael Keane 11/01/1993 0/0 0/0 Manchester United FC 18/11/1990 2/0 3/0 Leeds United AFC Jason Lowe 02/09/1991 6/0 8/0 Blackburn Rovers FC Jack Robinson 01/09/1993 0/0 0/0 Liverpool FC interview Danny Rose 02/07/1990 5/0 22/1 Tottenham Hotspur FC Jordan Henderson Luke Shaw 12/07/1995 0/0 0/0 Southampton FC Adam Smith 29/04/1991 5/0 8/0 Tottenham Hotspur FC “At the 2011 finals, we maybe 19/09/1990 0/0 1/0 Burnley FC didn’t do as well as we thought 09/05/1993 0/0 1/0 Liverpool FC we were going to. In an attacking Midfielders sense, we could have been a bit 01/05/1992 2/0 2/0 Newcastle United FC better and got a few more goals, 05/12/1993 3/0 4/0 Everton FC but defensively we were pretty Tom Carroll 28/05/1992 0/0 1/0 Tottenham Hotspur FC solid. Since then, younger lads Jordan Henderson 17/06/1990 10/2 17/3 Liverpool FC and new faces have come in, but 17/04/1995 0/0 0/0 Derby County FC we’ve all gelled really well. There Tom Ince 30/01/1992 4/0 4/0 Blackpool FC have been some good goals, good 12/10/1990 4/4 11/4 Nottingham Forest FC attacking play and we’ve defended Josh McEachran 01/03/1991 4/0 7/0 Chelsea FC really well – we just need more Callum McManaman 25/04/1991 0/0 0/0 Wigan Athletic FC of the same now. I’ve definitely Nathan Redmond 06/03/1994 0/0 0/0 City FC Jack Rodwell 11/03/1991 3/0 15/1 Manchester City FC come on personally since 2011. 27/02/1995 5/1 5/1 Liverpool FC With the quality of players at 08/12/1994 2/0 2/0 Liverpool FC Liverpool, like Stevie Gerrard and 16/07/1991 1/0 2/0 Tottenham Hotspur FC Luis Suárez – you learn a lot from Wilfried Zaha 10/11/1992 5/0 5/0 Manchester United FC them. I think I’ve done that and hopefully will continue to do so. Forwards I also had the brilliant experience 02/02/1991 5/0 14/1 Aston Villa FC Harry Kane 28/07/1993 0/0 1/0 Tottenham Hotspur FC of going to UEFA EURO 2012 with Ben Marshall 29/03/1991 2/0 2/0 Leicester City FC the senior squad. I managed to 17/02/1991 9/1 10/1 Bolton Wanderers FC play a part and I learned a lot from 23/01/1990 3/1 4/1 Leicester City FC the trip. Hopefully I can have a 31/03/1990 5/2 8/2 Sunderland AFC successful summer and then get Initial 40-man selection; see UEFA.com for the official 23-man final tournament squad back into the seniors.”

Number “ Younger lads have come in, but 810 we’ve gelled Since losing to an injury-time Belgium winner in Mons in November 2011, England have gone nine straight matches, or 810 minutes really well” (not including stoppage time), without conceding a goal.

19 Group A Israel/England/Norway/Italy Norway

Norway surprised many observers midfielder coach when booking their ticket to producing some particularly notable only their second UEFA European performances. It is testament to Tor Ole Skullerud Under-21 Championship final the promise of this crop that several Born: 10/12/1970 tournament. Drawn in qualifying players have already taken the step Before becoming Norway’s U21 Group 8, they took 16 points from up to the senior side, though this coach in January, Skullerud was eight games, winning three of could work against coach Tor Ole assistant to both the late Øystein four away fixtures – including an Skullerud, who may find some of his Gåre – taking charge for their impressive 3-1 success at third- charges on FIFA World Cup qualifying final three qualifiers for the 2011 placed Belgium. Although beaten duty with the seniors in June. finals after his colleague passed twice by section winners England The new coach took the reins away – and Per Joar Hansen, who in a pair of tight contests, the in January after Per Joar Hansen’s oversaw the qualifying campaign Scandinavian side got the better success with the U21s led to a call for Israel. Once a midfield player of another European heavyweight, from Rosenborg BK, yet Skullerud with Kongsvinger IL and Ullern IF, France, in the play-offs. They lost knows these players well, having he began his coaching career with the first leg 1-0 in Le Havre, but three previously been Hansen’s assistant. Bærum SK and has also had spells goals inside the opening 27 minutes “This is a group of players of high in charge of Norway’s U19 side of the return paved the way for a quality,” he said. “They have also and Vålerenga Fotball. thrilling 5-3 triumph on the night. built togetherness over time, There were five different scorers something we hope will see us in that game and Norway’s success advance from the group stage.” is very much a team effort – a point further illustrated by their list of top scorers in qualifying, with four players on two goals apiece: forwards Jo Inge Berget and Marcus Pedersen, defender Thomas Rogne and midfielder Harmeet Singh. Having got this far, Others have contributed in different Norway are looking to ways, with SC Freiburg full-back Vegar Hedenstad and AZ Alkmaar make their mark

20 Official Programme 2013 Best performance Group A Matches Third place in 1998 5 June v Israel, Netanya Last final tournament appearance 8 June v England, Petah Tikva 1998 (third place) 11 June v Italy, Tel Aviv

Players

Qualifying Competition Date of Birth Apps/goals Apps/goals Club

Goalkeepers Ørjan Håskjold Nyland 10/09/1990 1/0 6/0 FK Eirik Holmen Johansen 12/07/1992 2/0 3/0 Manchester City FC Gudmund Kongshavn 31/01/1991 0/0 0/0 Vålerenga Fotball Anders Kristiansen 17/03/1990 0/0 4/0 Bryne FK Arild Østbø 19/04/1991 7/0 9/0 Strømmen IL

Defenders Alexander Groven 02/01/1992 0/0 0/0 Hønefoss BK 26/06/1991 10/0 11/0 SC Freiburg Martin Linnes 20/09/1991 0/0 4/0 Molde FK Brede Mathias Moe 15/12/1991 0/0 0/0 Rosenborg BK Stian Ringstad 29/08/1991 0/0 0/0 Lillestrøm SK Thomas Rogne 29/06/1990 7/2 11/2 Celtic FC Stefan Strandberg 25/07/1990 10/0 12/0 Rosenborg BK Jonatan Tollås Nation 01/07/1990 0/0 2/0 Aalesunds FK Gustav Valsvik 26/05/1993 0/0 0/0 Sogndal IL interview Simen Wangberg 06/05/1991 1/0 1/0 SK Brann Jo Inge Berget Midfielders “It’s a long time since Norway V alon Berisha 07/02/1993 6/1 6/1 FC Salzburg were last in the finals of a major 14/11/1990 0/0 1/0 Fortuna Düsseldorf tournament and it’s about time Yann-Erik de Lanlay 14/05/1992 6/1 10/1 viking FK 08/08/1990 3/1 4/1 Molde FK people started to notice us again. Markus Henriksen 25/07/1992 4/1 5/2 AZ Alkmaar It’s very important for Norwegian Abdisallim Ibrahim 01/05/1991 0/0 2/0 Strømsgodset IF football and so beating France Remi Johansen 04/09/1990 0/0 2/0 Tromsø IL in the play-offs was great. We Stefan Johansen 08/01/1991 2/0 3/0 Strømsgodset IF decided they were a team we Anders Konradsen 18/07/1990 9/1 9/1 Stade Rennais FC could beat and everyone believed Håvard Nordtveit 21/06/1990 4/0 11/0 vfL Borussia Mönchengladbach it. When the referee blew the Harmeet Singh 12/11/1990 10/2 17/3 Feyenoord final whistle, it was an amazing Jørgen Skjelvik 05/07/1991 1/0 4/0 Kalmar FF feeling. Perhaps we’re not a typical Jonas Svensson 06/03/1993 1/0 1/0 Rosenborg BK Norwegian team. We want to play Fredrik S. Ulvestad 17/06/1992 3/0 4/0 Aalesunds FK football and be skilful with the Forwards ball, so we’re a modern team and 08/08/1992 3/1 7/1 Club Brugge KV we now have a great opportunity 06/02/1990 3/0 7/0 Odds BK to show what we believe in. It’s an Jo Inge Berget 11/09/1990 7/2 10/4 Molde FK opportunity for the players to get Torgeir Børven 03/12/1991 3/1 4/1 Vålerenga Fotball our names out there – when you Omar Elabdellaoui 05/12/1991 5/0 5/0 do a good job in a big tournament, Flamur Kastrati 14/11/1991 3/0 4/0 FC Erzgebirge Aue Mohammed Keita 02/09/1990 1/0 3/0 Strømsgodset a lot of doors open for you. I’ve 15/01/1992 4/1 4/1 Blackburn Rovers FC never been part of something like 19/01/1992 0/0 0/0 SK Brann this so it’s going to be great to be Håvard Nielsen 15/07/1993 4/1 4/1 FC Salzburg able to compare myself with the Marcus Pedersen 08/06/1990 7/2 8/2 Odense BK very best of my generation from Initial 40-man selection; see UEFA.com for the official 23-man final tournament squad the rest of Europe.”

Number “It’s about time people started to 10 notice V egar Hedenstad, Stefan Strandberg and Harmeet Singh featured in all ten of Norway’s qualifying matches, with defenders Hedenstad and Strandberg us again” playing every single minute of the campaign.

21 Group A Israel/England/Norway/Italy Italy

Cesare Prandelli’s wish to try out and Alberto Paloschi, while Luca coach young players for his senior Italy Marrone, often used a centre-back squad means that his Under-21 by Juventus, is the undisputed leader counterpart Devis Mangia has in midfield. Marrone sounded a Born: 06/06/1974 grown accustomed to being without confident note ahead of the final The former amateur goalkeeper key figures including Stephan El tournament when he said: “Our started coaching in his 20s and Shaarawy, and Mattia dream is to go all the way in Israel, made his name with AS Varese at De Sciglio, to name just a few. Yet but we have to focus only the start of this decade, taking regardless which players Mangia has on ourselves without thinking them into Italy’s fourth tier, at his disposal, Italy enter this final too much about our rivals.” Serie C2, via two consecutive tournament in good shape. Further back, Italy’s defence promotions. He later guided the The Azzurrini qualified for Israel is built around a number of FC same club’s juniors to the national by winning Group 7 with a game Internazionale Milano players Youth Cup final, where they lost to spare and then beating Sweden – goalkeeper , to AS Roma, before a short spell in home and away in the play-offs. centre-backs and with US Città di in They were narrow wins – 1-0 in , and full-backs Giulio 2011. Mangia then replaced Ciro Pescara and 3-2 in Kalmar – but Donati and . “We Ferrara as Azzurrini coach subsequent friendly victories against have not conceded goals in the last last summer. Germany, Russia and Ukraine this three friendly games,” said Mangia, year have given further grounds for pointing to a virtue that all successful optimism. One particular positive Italian sides seem to possess, and in those friendlies was the sight of one which should stand them in Genoa CFC striker Ciro Immobile good stead this summer. and SSC Napoli’s Lorenzo Insigne rekindling the partnership that, with a combined 46 goals, fired Pescara Calcio to promotion in 2011/12. The competition’s most Mangia has other options in successful side are attack, including , , Manolo Gabbiadini targeting a sixth title

22 Official Programme 2013 Best performance Group A Matches Winners in 1992, 1994, 1996, 2000, 2004 5 June v England, Tel Aviv Last final tournament appearance 8 June v Israel, Tel Aviv 2009 (semi-finals) 11 June v Norway, Tel Aviv

Qualifying statistics

Qualifying Competition Date of Birth Apps/goals Apps/goals Club

Goalkeepers Francesco Bardi 18/01/1992 6/0 9/0 FC Internazionale Milano 01/07/1991 0/0 5/0 Atalanta BC 17/02/1993 0/0 0/0 Juventus Mirko Pigliacelli 30/06/1993 0/0 0/0 Parma FC

Defenders 19/04/1992 0/0 3/0 AS Roma Matteo Bianchetti 17/03/1993 0/0 0/0 FC Internazionale Milano Cristiano Biraghi 01/09/1992 0/0 0/0 FC Internazionale Milano Luca Caldirola 01/02/1991 9/1 9/1 FC Internazionale Milano 14/10/1991 7/0 8/0 Pescara Calcio 25/09/1991 7/0 7/0 AS Roma Mattia De Sciglio 20/10/1992 3/0 3/0 AC Milan Giulio Donati 05/02/1990 4/0 6/0 FC Internazionale Milano Paolo Frascatore 04/01/1992 3/0 3/0 AS Roma Vasco Regini 09/09/1990 0/0 0/0 Empoli FC Profile Simone Romagnoli 09/02/1990 2/0 4/0 Pescara Calcio Record breakers Stefano Sabelli 13/01/1993 0/0 0/0 AS Roma Davide Santon 02/01/1991 4/0 10/0 Newcastle United FC ”It was a great experience, essential to my football career,” Midfielders recalled Italy striker Alberto 12/03/1992 0/0 0/0 AS Citadella Nicola Bellomo 18/02/1991 0/0 0/0 AS Bari Gilardino, after the Azzurini lifted 01/08/1994 0/0 0/0 US Sassuolo Calcio the trophy for a record fifth time Andrea Bertolacci 11/01/1991 3/0 5/0 Genoa CFC in 2004 following victory against 17/03/1990 3/0 5/0 US Grosseto FC Serbia and Montenegro in the Francesco Fedato 15/10/1992 0/0 0/0 AS Bari final. The Azzurrini won their titles Alessandro Florenzi 11/03/1991 9/2 9/2 AS Roma over seven tournaments between Luca Marrone 28/03/1990 10/0 18/1 Juventus 1992 and 2004 and their roll call Fausto Rossi 03/12/1990 8/1 9/1 Juventus of winners reads like a who’s who 05/12/1991 2/1 2/1 Hamburger SV of modern Italian football. Marco Verratti 05/11/1992 1/0 1/0 Paris Saint-Germain FC Demetrio Albertini, Francesco Federico Viviani 24/03/1992 3/1 4/1 AS Roma Totti, , Alessandro Forwards Nesta and were Fabio Borini 29/03/1991 2/1 9/1 Liverpool FC key players in the Italy sides that Giuseppe De Luca 11/10/1991 4/2 4/2 Atalanta BC claimed a hat-trick of victories Mattia Destro 20/03/1991 5/3 9/4 AS Roma in 1992, 1994 and 1996. The 27/10/1992 4/3 5/3 AC Milan 2000 vintage that beat the Czech Manolo Gabbiadini 26/11/1991 7/6 9/6 Atalanta BC Republic in the decider boasted Ciro Immobile 20/02/1990 5/4 5/4 Genoa CFC Lorenzo Insigne 04/06/1991 5/3 5/3 SSC Napoli the likes of , Alberto Paloschi 04/01/1990 6/1 14/2 AS Chievo Verona Andrea Pirlo and Cristiano Zanetti, 19/09/1991 0/0 0/0 Parma FC while Daniele De Rossi and 21/12/1991 5/1 5/1 Parma FC Gilardino were two of the stars 25/06/1991 0/0 0/0 UC Sampdoria of the 2004 champions. Initial 40-man selection; see UEFA.com for the official 23-man final tournament squad

Number “It was a great experience, essential to 6 my football Manolo Gabbiadini (right) was Italy’s top scorer during qualifying with six goals, while Lorenzo Insigne was their career” most prolific provider with five assists.

23 THE POWER FOR CHAMPIONS.

Energy of Azerbaijan.

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Keep up to date with the action throughout the tournament on UEFA.com

Match schedule

Group stage Group A

5 June Israel Group A England 19.00 Netanya Municipal Stadium Israel v Norway Norway 21.30 Bloomfield Stadium England v Italy Italy 6 june Group B Group B 19.00 Spain v Russia Group B Team 21.30 Ha Moshava Stadium Netherlands v Germany Spain TeamNetherlands 8 June Group A Team Russia 19.00 Ha Moshava Stadium England v Norway Team Germany 21.30 Bloomfield Stadium Italy v Israel 9 June Group B 19.00 Teddy Stadium Netherlands v Russia Created by craftsmen on the 21.30 Netanya Municipal Stadium Germany v Spain Venetian island of Murano, the UEFA European Under-21 Championship 11 June trophy stands 60cm tall. The central Group A glass vase is finished with brass, nickel, and 24-carat gold. 19.00 Teddy Stadium Israel v England 19.00 Bloomfield Stadium Norway v Italy 12 June Group B 19.00 Ha Moshava Stadium Spain v Netherlands 19.00 Netanya Municipal Stadium Russia v Germany

Semi-finals 15 June 18.30 v 15 june 21.30 Ha Moshava Stadium v The winner of Group A will play the runner-up in Group B and the winner of Group B will play the runner-up in Group A in the semi-finals.V enues will be allocated after the final Group B match has ended. Final

18 June 19.00 Teddy Stadium v

25 Key figures in Spain’s 2011 triumph, Javi Martínez and reflect on a golden era for their country C aMPEONES

C andwicheda between theMPEONES senior FC Bayern München. “And it was one of the done by the Spanish federation,” says team’s FIFA World Cup win in 2010 best experiences I have ever had in football. Herrera. “We are always well prepared and their EURO triumph of 2012 was Mata and I managed to make history and for final tournaments and we are always the victory for Spain’s Under-21 side we were very happy to have achieved that.” competitive. To master such a different and Sat the 2011 final tournament in Denmark. original way of playing and to be successful It enabled two players – Javi Martínez and SAME STYLE with it in all the lower categories is an – to achieve a unique treble of The Spaniards have turned one of football’s enormous achievement. We hope it will l gold medals. What’s more, two weeks after cliches on its head. The time-hallowed ast for a long time.” Spain beat Italy in the EURO final in Kyiv, the tradition is for a country’s age-limit teams Spanish players are encouraged to Under-19 team successfully defended their to play like the senior side. In Spain, the enjoy their football and to put their heart own European title under Julen Lopetegui, seniors’ triumphs have been based on and soul into the game – as illustrated by the coach now leading the country’s playing like the nation’s prodigious youth Herrera himself when asked to recall how defence of their Under-21 crown in Israel. teams. Ander Herrera, the Athletic Club he felt after heading a cross by left-back Success at all levels raises an obvious midfielder who headed the first goal in the question: what have the Spanish got that 2-0 U21 final victory against Switzerland the others don’t? in 2011, explains: “All the players in the “The Under-21s After winning a World Cup, how many younger categories want to make it into the players would step back down to the U21s? full national team. It’s very difficult. But we is one of the Martínez and Mata had no doubts. “After play the same style, which brings us closer winning the World Cup with the ‘A’ team, to the ‘A’ team. That’s why there is success.” best experiences I was very much looking forward to playing Spain’s successes at every level have I have ever had in the Under-21 EURO as well,” remembers bred generations who thrive in final midfielder Martínez, currently starring for tournaments. “A lot of good work is in football”

26 Official Programme 2013 Spain captain Javi Martínez lifts the trophy in 2011

Dídac Vilà into the Swiss net that June night with their back to goal and linking with Spain’s FinaL Starting XI two years ago. “I celebrated by running midfielders; and the art of quickly regaining 2011 U21 Championship final over to some people from Zaragoza who the ball after losing possession.” 25 June 2011, Aarhus I knew were in the stands. I couldn’t get Spain’s trophy cabinet inevitably makes Switzerland 0-2 Spain close to them because there was a fence. them, in any competition, the team to (Herrera 41, Thiago Alcántara 81) But, to be honest, I could have run all the beat. “Expectations are higher,” admits way to the hotel.” Herrera. “But it’s positive pressure because you want to play well, you want to win. ‘POSITIVE PRESSURE’ People expect things from you – and Any coach coming into the Royal Spanish that’s motivation. It made us feel strong Alberto Botía Álvaro Domínguez Football Federation (RFEF) coaching family and capable of winning in Denmark.” The knows he has to adapt to the playing question is how the class of 2013 can Martín Montoya Dídac Vilà philosophy. The 2011 U21 champions were cope with that sort of pressure. Martínez, Javi Martínez coached by Luis Milla, who had played Herrera’s room-mate in 2011, maintains for FC Barcelona and Real Madrid CF, and “there are four or five in the current team Thiago Alcántara Ander Herrera his place is now occupied by Lopetegui, a who, when you see them play, could Juan Mata former goalkeeper who also represented already be in the ‘A’ team. Young lads with Spain’s ‘big two’. “The main focus in our incredible talent. They have a good chance Adrián López training camps,” Lopetegui says, “is how of defending the title but, whatever the to make play from across the back four; pressure, I would tell them to enjoy the speed of ball circulation; the profile of every tournament as much as they can because playing position; use of the wings; speed of you’ll never be 21 again. So I would tell the movement; coaching forwards in playing Spanish team to enjoy it – and win it!”

27 GREAT FOOTBALL ON BIG SCREENS

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TRIC A4 Ad_CS4.indd 1 2013-04-30 11:14:27 Stadiums The tournament will be played out in modern, atmospheric and stylish venues

BBloomfieldloomfield Stadium Tel Aviv BNetanyaloomfield Municipal Stadium Netanya

Capacity 14,400 benefactors. Hapoel – originally Capacity 13,800 won five league titles between Built 1962 affiliated to the Histadrut trade Built 2012 1971 and 1983, and while they Distances to Netanya 36km, union – have always played home Distances to Tel Aviv 36km, have not added to that tally to Petah Tikva 12km, games at Bloomfield Stadium, but to Petah Tikva 32km, since, a 2-1 win against Hapoel to Jerusalem 65km more recently have been joined to Jerusalem 85km Tel-Aviv FC in their first game at by neighbours Maccabi Tel-Aviv FC the new venue augured well for Built on the site of the Basa (since 2000) and Bnei Yehuda Tel- Maccabi Netanya FC will hope the future. Located in the suburb Stadium – home to Hapoel Tel- Aviv FC (since 2004). Phil Collins, that their new stadium can prove of Bikrat Haroun, the stadium Aviv FC since 1950 – thanks to the Black Eyed Peas, the Scorpions to be as happy a home as their will eventually have a capacity of funding from Canada, the venue and have also played old one, the Sar-Tov Stadium – over 20,000, and be the centre was named in honour of the concerts at the arena, regarded which was sold to finance the of a sports complex with training Bloomfield family from Montreal as one of the most atmospheric building of this exciting venue. At facilities – fitting for a city porud who were among the main in Israel. ‘HaKufsa’ (the Box), the Diamonds of it sporting achievement.

BHaloomfield Moshava Stadium Petah Tikva BTeddyloomfield Stadium Jerusalem

Capacity 11,500 Maccabi Petach-Tikva FC moved Capacity 30,000 and Hapoel had played at the Built 2011 to the HaMoshava Stadium when Built 1991 YMCA Stadium until the new Distances to Tel Aviv 12km, it opened in 2011. The arena Distances to Tel Aviv 65km, venue was built in 1991, taking to Netanya 32km, takes its name from one of the to Netanya 85km, its name from the then mayor to Jerusalem 58km city’s nicknames Em HaMoshavot to Petah Tikva 58km of Jerusalem, Teddy Kollek. An (mother of the colonies) and impressive modern venue, which Previously co-tenants at the has already staged international Six-time champions and has staged international friendly Petah Tikva Municipal Stadium – friendly fixtures. It made its debut seven-time State Cup winners games, it will be the first stadium where future Israel and Chelsea in UEFA competition with Beitar Jerusalem FC share the in Israel to host the final of a FC boss started KuPS Kuopio’s 2-1 win against revamped Teddy Stadium with major UEFA tournament when his coaching career – six-time Maccabi Netanya FC in the their more modest neighbours the UEFA European Under-21 national champions Hapoel 2012/13 UEFA Europa League Hapoel Jerusalem FC and Hapoel Championships decider comes Petach-Tikva FC and local rivals second qualifying round. Katamon Jerusalem FC. Beitar to Jerusalem on 18 June.

29 football in israel Milestone moment This tournament may prove as key for Israeli football as reaching the 1970 FIFA World Cup

t seems reasonable to suggest that the Olympic quarter-finals, and he later became international spotlight will be shining one of the first Israeli footballers to play on Israeli football more intensely this abroad, representing Paris Saint-Germain month than at any time since the FC and New York Cosmos. “He is always Isummer of 1970. That was the year of seen as the symbol of our national team Israel’s first and so far only appearance at that got to the World Cup finals in 1970,” the FIFA World Cup final tournament, and adds Benayoun. “The first thing that comes the deeds of Emmanuel Scheffer’s men in into your mind is ‘Mottele’ Shpigler and the Mexico have remained the benchmark for goal that he scored.” all Israel national sides ever since. Subsequent Israel sides have come “There are some who say they are tired tantalisingly close to emulating Shpigler’s of hearing about 1970, but we should say generation. There were play-off defeats that it was a great achievement, and now by Colombia and Denmark respectively we want there to be another tournament in 1990 World Cup and UEFA EURO 2000 that will be spoken about,” says Yossi qualifying, while Benayoun’s Israel ended Benayoun, the Israel midfielder. their Germany 2006 qualification campaign Israel, then a member of the Asian unbeaten in third place in a group won by Football Confederation (AFC), made a a France side that went on to reach the positive impression on the world stage. World Cup final. After a 2-0 loss to Uruguay, Mordechai Benayoun was also in the Maccabi Haifa Shpigler’s second-half goal earned a 1-1 FC team which progressed to the 1998/99 draw with Sweden and they then held Italy, UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup quarter-finals. Only the eventual runners-up, to a goalless draw. Hapoel Tel-Aviv FC have travelled as far in That team featured fondly remembered a European competition – beating Chelsea players such as Itzhak Shum, Giora Spiegel FC, FC Lokomotiv Moskva and Parma FC and Yehoshua Faigenbaum, but the star in the 2001/02 UEFA Cup before falling man was Shpigler, scorer of their first World to AC Milan in the last eight. Cup strike and still his country’s 33-goal Three clubs from the country have since record marksman. made it into the UEFA Champions League The Russian-born forward had already group stage. Maccabi Haifa finished third shone on Mexican soil, scoring against in their section in 2002/03 after 3-0 wins El Salvador as Israel reached the 1968 against Olympiacos FC and Manchester

Early days It was 101 years ago that the first organised match took place between Maccabi Reihovot and a combined team of Maccabi Jaffa and Rishon Le Zion – clubs who merged to create Maccabi Tel-Aviv FC. The formation of the Eretz Israel-Palestine Football Association – as the Israel Football Association (IFA) was then known – followed in 1928, with FIFA membership granted the next year. By 1932, a national championship was starting up, and in 1934 a representative team took part in FIFA World Cup qualifying, losing to Egypt in a two-legged play-off.

30 Official Programme 2013 A sSOCIATION founded: 1928 Admitted to UEFA: 1994 Most capped player: Arik Benado (94) Highest scorer: Mordechai Shpigler (33) Most successful clubs: Maccabi Tel-Aviv FC and Maccabi Haifa FC

Maccabi Tel-Aviv won a Israel drew with Italy record 19th national title (pictured) and Sweden in 2012/13, although six of at the 1970 World their successes preceded Cup, but defeat by the 1948 foundation of Uruguay cost them a place in the last eight. the State of Israel. Their Below: at Haifa rivals’ 12 titles have the 2007 Under-21 all come from the 1980s final tournament onwards.

United FC. Maccabi Tel-Aviv FC took part in team’s centre-forward, has fond memories 2004/05 and Hapoel Tel-Aviv followed suit of that experience. “There are still times “When you in 2010/11, since when the latter club have at night when I dream of the moment I also appeared in the UEFA Europa League scored against France and we qualified. We host such group stage for two successive seasons. didn’t do so well in the EURO itself, because a big event, Although Israel has had a reformed it was our first try, but it was an amazing domestic Premier League since 1999, that experience, one that I wish all players could I think it is exposure to European football is key to have. For me, it really gave me a lot of belief, the further development of Israeli players and I hope our youngsters do well.” the highest according to Benayoun, whose noteworthy Whatever happens on the pitch, a spells at West Ham United FC and Liverpool milestone moment in Israel’s football of honours FC make him one of his country’s most history awaits, according to , successful footballing exports. tournament ambassador and the and it should “It’s always been a goal to have as many national U19 coach. He played in Belgium be a great players as possible in Europe, because with in the 1980s, lifting the European Cup all due respect to the standard in Israel, the Winners’ Cup with KV Mechelen, and is source of levels abroad are higher and people can excited that European eyes will now be learn all kinds of things there from different turning to his country. “When you host national coaches, and improve their game,” he says. such a big event, which is expected to be This month’s tournament will provide seen by about 150 million people, and pride” an important learning curve for the next when you look at these players, who will be generation of young talents. Israel have the biggest stars in football, I think it is the only participated in the final tournament highest of honours, and it should be a great once before, in 2007, and Ben Sahar, that source of national pride.”

31 Competition History

Taste of things to come Stars of the game recall their formative experiences at the Under-21s

Raúl González Spain

Raúl scored Spain’s goal but missed a penalty three or four in my career but at that time I used Raúl González (above) and Patrick Vieira (top right) in action for in the 1996 final defeat by Italy in Barcelona. to take them. We dominated Italy but couldn’t the Spanish and French senior “We had already beaten the Czech Republic score another, so it went to penalties and De la sides soon after representing to qualify for the Olympics and we had high Peña and I missed. I was still a young player and their countries at Under-21 level. expectations. We had a great team with Fernando those finals were an international stage on which Andrea Pirlo (right) celebrates Morientes, Gaizka Mendieta and Iván de la Peña to show what we could do. Fabio Cannavaro was scoring for Italy in the 2000 final. and we had lots of fun. We won our semi-final in Italy’s team and I remember him having a great Overleaf: Benedikt Höwedes (top) and Petr Čech were winners in 2-1 against Scotland in a very close match and in game. The tournament has grown a lot since, with 2009 and 2002 respectively the final were up against Italy. They took the lead eight teams in the finals, which means you can but I equalised with one of the few goals I scored see more of the players and assess them better. from a free-kick. I can only remember scoring You really see what level a player can operate at.”

32 Official Programme 2013 Patrick Vieira France

Les Bleuets finished third in 1996 yet Vieira believes the experience sowed the seeds for future success. “When we talk about the U21s, this is where the story of a national team begins and for me it was a great experience. Unfortunately we lost to Italy in the semi-finals – we dominated but in the end we lost 1-0. I’d say U21 competitions are very important in giving you an idea of what you will face with the senior team. It allows you to prepare yourself for the real thing. You become aware of your own level and you see how much further you still need to improve. Additionally, for that French team in ‘96, the experience of a European Championship enabled us to adapt more easily to the senior squad. The likes of Robert Pirès, and Vincent Candela also stepped up and we knew each other and supported each other. When you talk about the national team, you meet on the Sunday and play a few days later and there’s not really enough time to work well together – but when you have a good core of U21 players coming through, you’ve already spent time together as a group.”

Andrea Pirlo Italy

Pirlo struck both goals in Italy’s 2-1 final win over the Czech Republic in Slovakia in 2000. “I scored a penalty in our first game against England – a difficult match though in the end we won – but had a bad experience in the next game against Slovakia with a sending-off. I thought that was it for me but my team-mates were great, and made sure I could play again in the final and give something back. Our coach gave me lots of responsibility although I was already used to that – in all the teams I had played in, I had to take the responsibility and it gave me strength. My first goal was a penalty and then I scored the second late on. It was a free-kick from distance – I just took the ball and decided to shoot over the wall, and it went in. Those tournaments are a great education for young players. I started in the U15 team and the Italy shirt became like a second skin to me. When you wear that shirt it gives you wings – you are able to give even more than you think you can.” “The Under-21s is where the story of a national team begins”

33

Competition History

Benedikt Höwedes Germany The defender scored the goal that got champions-elect Germany to the 2009 tournament in Sweden. “We had a faultless team with individuals like Mezut Özil, and Manuel Neuer and to win the final 4-0 against England was a great performance. It began with the play-off against France. We were close to being eliminated, the French were already celebrating, but then a cross came in and I managed to score. It was a great moment in my young career. I also scored in our second match in Sweden. We’d drawn with Spain and the Finns were giving us a tough game, but I managed to get a header, which gave the team a little boost. Our coach taught us to be very compact in defence yet we also played great football – we passed the ball between the lines very well and produced some great combinations. As a young player, though, you can’t rest on that success. Özil and Khedira are now at Real Madrid but we had other players who didn’t make it to the top. At tournaments like this international clubs do take notice of you, but you also need to continue working hard.” “I saved two penalties in the shoot-out and the joy was immense. It remains one of the best victories of my career”

Petr Čech Czech Republic

Čech saved two penalties in the 2002 final shoot-out to earn his country a first U21 title. “A U21 tournament opens doors – scouts from all over the world are watching and we knew it could mean a big break for any of us. We’d beaten Croatia in a play-off and believed we could reach the semi-finals but we lost our first game to France, the group favourites. We didn’t convince against Belgium in our next match either but scored a late winner and then drew with Greece, which was enough. Against Italy in the semis, we led 2-0 but they got it back to 2-2. That made our victory in extra time all the more precious and we went into the final with fresh mental energy, knowing the worst was behind us. We had an advantage over France because we knew we could play better than in the group game whereas they were under pressure – everyone expected them to win. I saved two penalties in the shoot-out and the joy was immense. However, only later do you digest the enormity of it and realise how difficult it is to win big tournaments. It remains one of the best victories of my career.”

35 Qualifying results and tables Road to Israel

It took 234 qualifying matches to group 1 determine which seven sides joined Team P W D L F A Pts hosts Israel in the final tournament GermanName herey 10X 9X 1X 0X 39X 9X 28X NameBosnia here and Herzegovina X10 X6 X2 X2 X25 X12 X20 Qualification for the 2013 UEFA European Under-21 NameGreece here X10 X4 X1 X5 X14 X15 X13 Championship kicked off in Sivas, Turkey, on 25 March NameBelarus here X10 X4 X1 X5 X11 X17 X13 2011 with Ali Küçik scoring the first goal of the competition NameCyprus here X10 X4 X0 X6 X16 X20 X12 15 minutes into a 6-1 Turkish home victory against NameSan Marino here X10 X0 X1 X9 X2 X34 X1 Liechtenstein. The 2011 final tournament was still almost three months away, but already the race for a place in Israel CYP 6-0 SMR BLR 1-1 BIH CYP 1-3 BLR SMR 0-2 BLR SMR 1-2 CYP BIH 4-0 GRE SMR 0-3 BIH CYP 0-2 GRE SMR 0-8 GER CYP 2-1 BIH BIH 3-0 BLR GER 3-0 BLR in 2013 had begun. While Israel watched on, having qualified GER 4-1 CYP BLR 0-1 GER BIH 5-1 CYP GRE 0-1 BIH SMR 0-0 GRE GRE 1-0 CYP automatically as hosts, their rivals for the trophy embarked GRE 2-3 BLR GRE 2-0 SMR BLR 1-3 GRE CYP 0-3 GER BIH 3-1 SMR BIH 4-4 GER on the most demanding of qualifying campaigns. The 52 GER 7-0 SMR GER 3-0 BIH GRE 4-5 GER GER 1-0 GRE BLR 0-3 CYP BLR 1-0 SMR entrants were split into two groups of six teams and eight groups of five. The ten group winners and four best runners- group 2 up advanced to the play-offs, where they met on a knockout Team P W D L F A Pts basis over two legs. The drama lasted to the final whistle Sweden 10 7 1 2 18 10 22 on 16 October 2012, when Norway held off a late France comeback to progress 5-4 on aggregate. Of the seven sides Slovenia 10 6 2 2 15 8 20 to last the course, only Germany and holders Spain came Ukraine 10 5 2 3 21 10 17 through undefeated. Can either keep that run going in Israel? Finland 10 3 3 4 12 14 12 Lithuania 10 3 0 7 9 18 9 Malta 10 1 2 7 8 23 5 The Netherlands (below) and Italy (right) both LTU 0-1 SVN MLT 1-4 SVN MLT 2-2 UKR UKR 2-0 LTU SVN 1-1 FIN UKR 2-0 SVN won their groups FIN 0-0 MLT SWE 4-0 LTU FIN 0-1 SWE MLT 0-1 SWE SWE 4-0 MLT UKR 5-1 MLT LTU 1-2 MLT MLT 1-2 FIN MLT 0-2 LTU UKR 6-0 SWE FIN 1-2 UKR SVN 2-1 SWE FIN 1-0 SVN SVN 2-0 UKR SVN 2-0 LTU SVN 2-1 MLT SWE 3-0 FIN LTU 1-3 FIN LTU 0-1 SWE SWE 1-1 SVN UKR 1-1 FIN LTU 1-0 UKR FIN 3-4 LTU SWE 2-1 UKR

group 3 Team P W D L F A Pts

Czech Republic 8 6 2 0 24 3 20

Armenia 8 4 3 1 11 5 15

Montenegro 8 3 2 3 14 8 11

Wales 8 3 1 4 7 10 10

Andorra 8 0 0 8 2 32 0

AND 0-1 WAL AND 0-1 ARM WAL 0-1 CZE WAL 4-0 AND WAL 0-1 ARM AND 0-5 MNE CZE 1-1 ARM MNE 4-0 AND CZE 2-1 MNE MNE 0-0 CZE ARM 4-1 MNE MNE 3-1 WAL AME 0-2 CZE AND 1-5 CZE CZE 5-0 WAL CZE 8-0 AND WAL 1-0 MNE ARM 0-0 WAL ARM 4-1 AND MNE 0-0 ARM

group 4 Team P W D L F A Pts

Serbia 8 5 3 0 17 4 18

Denmark 8 4 4 0 19 8 16

FYROM 8 3 3 2 14 15 12

Northern Ireland 8 1 1 6 5 13 4

Faroe Islands 8 0 3 5 3 18 3

FRO 0-0 NIR SRB 5-1 FRO MKD 1-0 FRO FRO 1-1 MKD DEN 1-1 SRB NIR 4-0 FRO MKD 1-1 SRB MKD 1-1 DEN DEN 6-5 MKD NIR 1-3 MKD SRB 1-0 NIR DEN 4-0 FRO NIR 0-2 SRB FRO 0-2 SRB DEN 3-0 NIR NIR 0-3 DEN SRB 0-0 DEN MKD 1-0 NIR FRO 1-1 DEN SRB 5-1 MKD

36 Official Programme 2013 group 5 group 9 Team P W D L F A Pts Team P W D L F A Pts

Spain 8 7 1 0 27 2 22 France 8 7 0 1 19 2 21

Switzerland 8 5 2 1 15 4 17 Slovakia 8 5 0 3 17 7 15

Georgia 8 3 1 4 8 18 10 Romania 8 4 2 2 11 6 14

Croatia 8 2 1 5 7 16 7 Kazakhstan 8 0 4 4 2 14 4

Estonia 8 0 1 7 2 19 1 Latvia 8 0 2 6 1 21 2

CRO 0-1 GEO ESP 2-0 GEO SUI 5-0 GEO EST 0-1 ESP GEO 2-1 EST ROU 0-0 KAZ KAZ 0-1 SVK ROU 0-2 FRA FRA 3-0 LVA LVA 1-1 KAZ EST 0-0 SUI CRO 0-2 ESP ESP 6-0 EST CRO 1-2 SUI SUI 0-0 ESP SVK 2-0 LVA ROU 2-0 LVA FRA 3-0 ROU ROU 2-0 SVK SVK 2-1 FRA GEO 2-7 ESP GEO 0-1 SUI CRO 4-0 EST EST 1-2 GEO ESP 6-0 CRO KAZ 1-1 ROU FRA 2-0 KAZ FRA 2-0 SVK KAZ 0-3 FRA LVA 0-4 ROU SUI 4-0 CRO EST 0-1 CRO ESP 3-0 SUI GEO 1-1 CRO SUI 3-0 EST LVA 0-3 FRA LVA 0-6 SVK SVK 0-2 ROU KAZ 0-0 LVA SVK 6-0 KAZ

group 6 group 10 Team P W D L F A Pts Team P W D L F A Pts

Russia 8 5 2 1 17 5 17 Netherlands 8 6 1 1 21 3 19

Portugal 8 4 3 1 15 6 15 Scotland 8 3 4 1 16 9 13

Poland 8 3 2 3 13 13 11 Bulgaria 8 3 3 2 11 12 12

Moldova 8 2 1 5 10 24 7 Austria 8 3 2 3 15 14 11

Albania 8 1 2 5 11 18 5 Luxembourg 8 0 0 8 6 31 0

MDA 0-2 POR POR 1-1 POL ALB 0-1 RUS MDA 2-4 POL RUS 4-1 POL LUX 1-4 AUT AUT 0-1 NED AUT 0-2 BUL BUL 2-2 SCO SCO 3-0 LUX ALB 0-3 POL MDA 0-6 RUS POR 5-0 MDA POR 1-0 RUS MDA 2-1 ALB BUL 0-1 NED LUX 1-5 SCO NED 1-2 SCO LUX 0-5 NED NED 4-1 AUT ALB 4-3 MDA POL 4-3 ALB POL 0-1 MDA POR 3-1 ALB RUS 2-2 MDA SCO 0-0 BUL SCO 2-2 AUT BUL 1-1 AUT AUT 4-1 LUX AUT 3-2 SCO POL 0-2 RUS RUS 2-1 POR ALB 2-2 POR RUS 0-0 ALB POL 0-0 POR NED 4-0 LUX BUL 3-2 LUX SCO 0-0 NED NED 5-0 BUL LUX 1-3 BUL

group 7 play- offs Team P W D L F A Pts Slovakia 0-2 Netherlands Italy 8 6 1 1 27 8 19 Netherlands 2-0 Slovakia Netherlands win 4-0 on aggregate Turkey 8 5 0 3 13 7 15

Republic of Ireland 8 4 1 3 15 10 13 Spain 5-0 Denmark Denmark 1-3 Spain Hungary 8 4 0 4 11 10 12 Spain win 8-1 on aggregate Liechtenstein 8 0 0 8 4 35 0 Czech Republic 0-2 Russia TUR 6-1 LIE TUR 1-0 IRL LIE 1-4 IRL HUN 1-0 TUR ITA 7-0 LIE Russia 2-2 Czech Republic IRL 2-1 HUN LIE 2-7 ITA TUR 0-2 ITA IRL 2-2 ITA HUN 2-1 IRL Russia win 4-2 on aggregate LIE 0-3 TUR TUR 2-1 HUN IRL 2-0 LIE LIE 0-4 HUN HUN 2-0 LIE HUN 0-3 ITA ITA 2-0 TUR ITA 2-0 HUN IRL 0-1 TUR ITA 2-4 IRL Germany 1-1 Switzerland group 8 Switzerland 1-3 Germany Germany win 4-2 on aggregate Team P W D L F A Pts

England 8 7 0 1 24 3 21 France 1-0 Norway Norway 5-3 France Norway 8 5 1 2 13 7 16 Norway win 5-4 on aggregate Belgium 8 3 2 3 17 15 11 England 1-0 Serbia Azerbaijan 8 2 1 5 6 18 7 Serbia 0-1 England Iceland 8 1 0 7 4 21 3 England win 2-0 on aggregate ISL 2-1 BEL AZE 0-2 NOR NOR 2-2 BEL ENG 4-0 BEL AZE 0-2 ENG Italy 1-0 Sweden ENG 6-0 AZE ISL 0-3 ENG ENG 5-0 ICE NOR 1-0 AZE BEL 1-3 NOR Sweden 2-3 Italy BEL 4-1 AZE AZE 2-2 BEL BEL 2-1 ENG ISL 1-2 AZE ENG 1-0 NOR Italy win 4-2 on aggregate ISL 0-2 NOR NOR 1-2 ENG AZE 1-0 ICE NOR 2-1 ICE BEL 5-0 ICE Numbers Game Qualifying statistics

Leading scorerS T iME of goals

11 Rodrigo Sinpa 9 jan Chramosta C ubliczeCH Rep 116 106 101 10 GOALS GOALS GOALS GOALS 8 Gemero Zeefuik Netherlands

8 jordan Rhodes Stlandco

8 Peniel Mlapa Germany Minute Minute Minute Additional 1-15 16-30 31-45 time 7 Fedor Smolov R uSSIA (1st half) 6 Milan Djurić B oSNIA and Herzegovina

6 Manolo Gabbiadini italy

6 Mikael Ishak sweden 6 Armando Sadiku Albania 96 119 141 37 GOALS GOALS GOALS GOALS 6 Sinpa 6 Nemanja Bilbija B oSNIA and Herzegovina Minute Minute Minute Additional 46-60 61-75 76-90 time (2nd half) Most assists

8 Miroslav Stevanović B oSNIA and Herzegovina

7 spain

5 Lorenzo Insigne Ialyt

5 Iker Muniain spain 5 Lewis Holtby germany 22,647 5 Isco Sinpa

5 Erdin Demir sweden highest Attendance 3 England 4-0 Belgium, Riverside Stadium, Most attempts on target Middlesbrough, 29/02/2012 Meanest Defences 19 Andriy Bogdanov ukraine 22 England, the Netherlands and 17 Marco van Ginkel netherlands Spain Conceded just three goals each in 17 Nemanja Bilbija Most attempts qualifying B oSNIA and Herzegovina on target 11 Denmark 6-5 FYROM 15 Jan Chramosta C ubliczeCH Rep Group 4 05/06/2012 3.58 15 Fedor Smolov R uSSIA M alsoST Go in a game 15 Isco Sinpa Denmark 6-5 FYROM Group 4 M alsoST Go 14 Peniel Mlapa Germany 05/06/2012 0 (average) germany scored 43 14 Edin Višća B oSNIA and Herzegovina goals in 12 games in qualifying at an average of 3.58 per FEWEST DEFEATS game. That was eight 20 more than the next Germany AND Spain both came highest scorers, through qualifying Spain, who scored 35 goals in ten matches Most attempts undefeated off target Malta 0-1 Sweden Group 2 15/11/2011 38 Official programme 2013 Flashback 2006

Huntelaar hits the heights Klaas-Jan Huntelaar (left) and Urby time victory against France in the semi- the momentum gained in Portugal would Emanuelson savour the moment after finals then two versus Ukraine in the final. prove lasting. Within 12 months Foppe de the Netherlands clinched the 2006 UEFA “Winning the U21 final was the most Haan’s side had triumphed again – this time European Under-21 Championship title beautiful memory for me,” Huntelaar on home soil following a 4-1 victory against with a 3-0 final victory against Ukraine in said. “To receive the gold medal and the Serbia – to become just the third team Porto. For Huntelaar in particular, it was a trophy was great – there is nothing like that after England (1982 and 1984) and Italy championship to remember. Having already winning feeling. You go to tournaments to (1992, 1994 and 1996) to successfully scored ten goals in qualifying, he finished as win and when you actually lift the prize, you defend the trophy. the final tournament’s leading scorer with feel tremendous pride and happiness.” four more, including one in the 3-2 extra- It was the Netherlands’ first U21 title and

39

Group B Spain/Netherlands/Russia/Germany

From left to right: Maximilian Beister (Germany), Luciano Narsingh (Netherlands), Denis Cheryshev (Russia), Iker Muniain (Spain)

History on Spain’s side The holders boast a strong record against their Group B rivals

The omens are good for title holders Spain champions Juan Mata and Gerard Piqué Oranje’s 2-1 win in Rotterdam in November as Julen Lopetegui’s team have a positive were among the scorers. 2009 was Spain’s last competitive U21 record against all three sides they will Their second opponents, Germany, defeat coming into this tournament – a run face in Group B. Champions in Denmark fare little better against Spain, having lost of 20 unbeaten matches. two years ago, Spain will be confident of three of their five encounters, though The other matchday one fixture brings getting off to a good start as they kick off they did earn a goalless draw in the together rivals the Netherlands and against a Russia side they have beaten in group stage four years ago. The Iberian Germany, who have two wins each from their three previous competitive meetings. team have also recorded seven victories their four competitive meetings – although That includes home and away successes in from 11 competitive games against the they have not played since 1989. Russia qualifying for the 2009 final tournament, Netherlands, both winning their home have never played a competitive game when future world and European match in 2011 qualifying. Indeed, the Jong against either the Netherlands or Germany.

41 Group B Germany/Netherlands/Russia/Spain Spain

Spain arrive in Israel as holders Bartra, meanwhile, led a defensive coach of the UEFA European Under-21 unit that conceded in just two of ten Championship title. Winners in qualifying games. Indeed, prior to Julen Lopetegui Denmark two years ago, La Rojita Denmark scoring in the 91st minute Born: 28/08/1966 are making their third consecutive of their play-off second leg, Spain In his goalkeeping days, Lopetegui appearance at the final tournament had gone over 13 months without had spells at Real Madrid CF and and will be led by Julen Lopetegui, letting in a qualifying goal. FC Barcelona as well as playing for the coach who oversaw a Spanish With a combination of raw talent, CD Logroñés and victory at last summer’s European quick passing and movement in de Madrid and earning one Spain U19 showcase. attack, and a solid defensive system, cap. He coached Real Madrid The holders qualified in confident Spain have “a specific objective” Castilla and Rayo subsequently, fashion, collecting seven wins according to their coach – and there before guiding Spain’s Under- and a draw from eight Group 5 are no prizes for guessing what it is. 19s to the 2012 European title. fixtures, while racking up 27 goals “I think these finals are going to be Hired as U21 coach that August, and conceding just two. Their very difficult, but to win the trophy Lopetegui was also in charge of subsequent two-legged play-off we will look to compete with our the Spain team at the 2011 FIFA against Denmark produced style of play and win every game,” U-20 World Cup, having reached an equally emphatic 8-1 said Lopetegui, after his side were the final of the same competition aggregate success. drawn alongside Russia, Germany as a player in 1985. In addition to the players who and the Netherlands. competed in 2011 – captain and goalkeeper David de Gea, midfielder Thiago Alcántara and forward Iker Muniain – there is a new crop of talent at Lopetegui’s disposal. Striker Rodrigo scored 11 times in nine qualifiers, while Isco combined his impressive UEFA Champions League The holders return performances for Málaga CF with six confident of retaining goals and five assists for the U21s en route to Israel. FC Barcelona’s Marc their crown

42 Official Programme 2013 Best performance Group A Matches Winners in 1986, 1998, 2011 6 June v Russia, Jerusalem Last final tournament appearance 9 June v Germany, Netanya 2011 (winners) 12 June v Netherlands, Petah Tikva

Players

Qualifying Competition Date of Birth Apps/goals Apps/goals Club

Goalkeepers David de Gea 07/11/1990 9/0 23/0 Manchester United FC Joel 17/06/1990 0/0 2/0 Wigan Atheltic FC Diego Mariño 09/05/1990 1/0 15/0 villarreal CF 18/05/1992 0/0 0/0

Defenders Álvaro 08/01/1990 0/0 1/0 Real Zaragoza 21/03/1992 4/0 6/0 Rayo Vallecano de Madrid Jon Aurtenetxe 03/01/1992 0/0 0/0 Athletic Club 15/01/1991 8/2 8/2 FC Barcelona Daniel Carvajal 11/01/1992 0/0 0/0 Sergi Gómez 28/03/1991 0/0 0/0 FC Barcelona Javi Manquillo 05/05/1994 0/0 0/0 Club Atlético de Madrid Ignasi Miquel 28/09/1992 0/0 0/0 Arsenal FC Martín Montoya 14/04/1991 8/1 13/1 FC Barcelona Alberto Moreno 05/07/1992 0/0 0/0 Sevilla FC interview Marc Muniesa 27/03/1992 2/0 3/0 FC Barcelona Isco Nacho 18/01/1990 1/0 7/0 Real Madrid CF Carles Planas 04/03/1991 10/0 10/0 FC Barcelona “Spanish football has a special reputation after winning three Midfielders senior titles in a row, so we want Thiago Alcántara 11/04/1991 2/1 11/2 FC Barcelona Ignacio Camacho 04/05/1990 1/0 2/0 Málaga CF to live up to that. We’re up against 16/02/1991 3/3 7/5 Valencia CF pretty strong teams in our group, Asier Illarramendi 08/03/1990 7/0 8/0 de Fútbol so it will be difficult, but we trust Isco 21/04/1992 10/6 10/6 Málaga CF a lot in ourselves. We are a team Koke 08/01/1992 5/1 6/1 Club Atlético de Madrid that pass the ball around very Iñigo Martínez 17/05/1991 7/0 8/0 Real Sociedad de Fútbol well and score a lot of goals, Pedro Mba Obiang 27/03/1992 0/0 0/0 UC Sampdoria and we won all our matches in Rubén Pardo 22/10/1992 0/0 1/0 Real Sociedad de Fútbol qualifying except one, so our Recio 11/01/1991 0/0 1/0 Granada CF statistics are very good. This is Sergi Roberto 07/02/1992 4/0 6/0 FC Barcelona an important competition and Pablo Sarabia 11/05/1992 7/2 7/2 Getafe CF helps you get experience – you Forwards are representing your country 13/03/1994 3/1 4/1 FC Barcelona in the whole of Europe – but Juan Carlos 30/03/1990 4/0 5/0 SC Braga fortunately I will come into it Isaac Cuenca 27/04/1991 2/0 2/0 FC Barcelona after taking a step forward this 27/03/1990 0/0 3/1 TSG 1899 Hoffenheim season with my club, Málaga. I’ve Álvaro Morata 23/10/1992 0/0 1/0 Real Madrid Castilla become more involved in games Iker Muniain 19/12/1992 7/2 13/2 Athletic Club Rubén Rochina 23/03/1991 0/0 0/0 Real Zaragoza and played more offensively, Rodrigo 06/03/1991 9/11 9/11 SL Benfica creating chances. I’ve also scored Jesé Rodríguez 26/02/1993 0/0 0/0 Real Madrid Castilla more goals and had some of the Cristian Tello 11/08/1991 5/0 6/0 FC Barcelona best nights of my career in the Álvaro Vázquez 27/04/1991 9/5 10/5 Getafe CF UEFA Champions League. It’s all Initial 40-man selection; see UEFA.com for the official 23-man final tournament squad happened pretty fast, but I think I’m still the young lad that I’ve always been.” Number “Spain have a special 813 reputation. The number of minutes that Spain went without We want to live conceding a goal in qualifying, a run that lasted from 1 September 2011 to 16 October 2012. up to that”

43 Group B Germany/Netherlands/Russia/Spain Netherlands

Cor Pot’s Netherlands side are back It is certainly an experienced coach at the Under-21 final tournament squad Pot brings with him to Israel, after missing out on the last two with as many as 12 players in his Cor Pot tournaments, finally gaining the initial selection having already had Born: 08/06/1951 chance to add to their 2006 and a taste of the senior team, including The one-time 2007 European crowns. Kevin Strootman, Ola John, Luuk de striker is now in his second spell The Jong Oranje began qualifying Jong and Van Ginkel. with the Jong Oranje, taking with three straight victories but Coach Pot is optimistic that, charge again in 2009. He joined suffered a blip when picking up just with a full-strength squad, the the Royal Netherlands Football a point from back-to-back meetings Netherlands can make a big impact Association (KNVB) in 2002 as with Scotland. They soon reasserted in Israel. “The best players have to a youth coach and head scout, their supremacy in Group 10, go to the European Championship taking the Under-21 reins for the however, winning their remaining finals,” he said. “It seems logical 2003/04 season. In 2006, Pot left three games and scoring 14 goals to me that, with those players at for Russia and spent three years in the process. The play-off that the tournament, we will have a as ’s assistant at FC followed against Slovakia was plain chance.” They certainly began their Zenit St Petersburg. His coaching sailing as a 2-0 away win in the first preparations on a positive note, CV also includes stints with RBC leg put them in control before they beating Israel 2-1 in a pre-finals Roosendaal, NAC Breda and SBV completed the job with an identical friendly in Petah Tikva in March, Excelsior, as well as jobs in Egypt result back in Rotterdam. before returning home to defeat and Germany. Genero Zeefuik was the team’s Norway 4-1 in Waalwijk. top scorer in qualifying with eight goals, though the crucial away strikes in their play-off came from Vitesse midfielder Marco van Ginkel. Other notable performers were Bram Nuytinck, the centre-back and captain, and Kelvin Leerdam, Absent in 2009 and 2011, the only ever-present in qualifying the Dutch are back with a – a consequence of so many of the group stepping up to senior level. point to prove

44 Official Programme 2013 Best performance Group B Matches Winners in 2006, 2007 6 June v Germany, Petah Tikva Last final tournament appearance 9 June v Russia, Jeruslam 2007 (winners) 12 June v Spain, Petah Tikva

Players

Qualifying Competition Date of Birth Apps/goals Apps/goals Club

Goalkeepers 06/01/1991 9/0 10/0 PSV Eindhoven 10/03/1991 2/0 4/0 FC Groningen Warner Hahn 15/06/1992 0/0 0/0 FC Dordrecht Nick Marsman 01/10/1990 0/0 0/0 FC Twente Sergio Padt 06/06/1990 0/0 16/0 KAA Gent

Defenders 09/03/1990 7/0 16/0 AFC Ajax 13/11/1991 3/0 10/0 Chelsea FC 05/02/1992 6/0 6/0 Feyenoord 09/02/1993 1/0 3/0 AFC Ajax Jeffrey Gouweleeuw 10/07/1991 1/0 5/0 sc Heerenveen 08/02/1992 3/0 3/0 Feyenoord Kelvin Leerdam 24/06/1990 10/0 10/0 Feyenoord Miquel Nelom 22/09/1990 0/0 0/0 Feyenoord Bram Nuytinck 04/05/1990 9/1 13/1 RSC Anderlecht interview 29/08/1990 3/0 3/0 Chelsea FC Jeroen Zoet Mike van der Hoorn 15/10/1992 0/0 0/0 FC Utrecht Virgil van Dijk 08/07/1991 1/0 4/0 FC Groningen “I remember going to watch the Ricardo van Rhijn 13/06/1991 2/0 2/0 AFC Ajax Jong Oranje win the 2007 final, 30/03/1994 0/0 0/0 PSV Eindhoven which was right around the corner Midfielders from me in Groningen – they 21/08/1991 6/1 7/1 FC Groningen won 4-1 against Serbia. It was, Thomas Bruns 07/01/1992 0/0 0/0 therefore, an important goal Jordy Clasie 27/06/1991 6/1 6/1 Feyenoord for me to make this European Lerin Duarte 11/08/1990 2/0 2/0 Heracles Almelo Championship and that’s why I 05/01/1990 7/3 15/3 FC Twente chose to stay out on loan at RKC Adam Maher 20/07/1993 5/0 5/0 AZ Alkmaar Waalwijk from PSV Eindhoven Kevin Strootman 13/02/1990 0/0 9/0 PSV Eindhoven for one more year, to play games Tonny Trindade de Vilhena 03/01/1995 0/0 0/0 Feyenoord and stay visible for the U21s. Marco van Ginkel 01/12/1992 9/3 9/3 Vitesse It worked out well for me and Ricky van Haaren 21/06/1991 3/1 6/1 VVV-Venlo it looks good for the team too. Forwards We’ve played with the same guys 27/08/1990 2/1 8/2 VfL Borussia Mönchengladbach at the back a lot, and thanks to 13/02/1994 0/0 0/0 PSV Eindhoven that we conceded very few goals Danny Hoesen 15/01/1991 0/0 0/0 AFC Ajax in qualifying – only three. I think Guus Hupperts 25/04/1992 0/0 0/0 Roda JC that, in terms of individuals, we Ola John 19/05/1992 4/0 4/0 SL Benfica have a very good side. We could 09/02/1991 0/0 0/0 RKC Waalwijk Jürgen Locadia 07/11/1993 0/0 0/0 PSV Eindhoven have a starting XI of players who Rajiv van La Parra 04/06/1991 0/0 3/0 sc Heerenveen have appeared at least once for 11/11/1990 5/3 13/4 PSV Eindhoven the senior national team and I Yanic Wildschut 01/11/1991 5/0 5/0 VVV-Venlo don’t think many countries could 05/04/1990 7/8 8/8 FC Groningen say that. That said, we now need Initial 40-man selection; see UEFA.com for the official 23-man final tournament squad to show we can play good football and become a real team.” Number “It was an important goal for me to make 200,000 this European When the Netherlands hosted the 2007 U21 final tournament, a record number of people – totalling over 200,000 – attended matches, with an average crowd of 22,000 Championship” at the Jong Oranje’s games.

45 Group B Germany/Netherlands/Russia/Spain Russia

Back competing on this stage for the backbone makes him “optimistic coach first time in 15 years, Russia signalled about our chances in Israel”. their intent with four straight wins “We are in Europe’s top Nikolai Pisarev at the start of qualifying, including eight, which is already a small Born: 11/12/1968 a 2-1 home success against their breakthrough for Russian football,” Under-21 coach since 2010, closest rivals in Group 6, Portugal. added the 44-year-old, whose Pisarev won half a dozen Russian Things grew more complicated after success in leading the Under-21s to league titles over the course a loss in the return fixture in Barcelos, this final tournament attracted job of two spells with FC Spartak but although Nikolai Pisarev’s men offers from several Russian top-flight Moskva in a playing career that claimed just a single victory in their clubs, all of them rejected. A tough also took him to Switzerland, last four matches, they still made task awaits his side in a daunting- Spain and Germany. He actually it over the line as section winners, looking Group B and the March featured in the early matches of two points ahead of the Portuguese. friendly defeats against Italy and the USSR’s triumphant European In the ensuing play-off against the Spain – their opening opponents U21 campaign in 1990 but was Czech Republic, Fedor Smolov struck in Jerusalem – only underlined not involved in the final stages. He twice to earn a 2-0 away win in the that fact. Pisarev was nonetheless combines his U21 coaching role first leg, and Russia then survived a undeterred by those setbacks, with his post as Russian Football test of nerve in the decider, trailing promising: “We will be ready and Union (RFS) , 2-1 before Yuri Kirillov’s late goal better balanced by June.” before which he oversaw Russia’s ended any doubt. beach soccer team. Forward Smolov, who spent the 2012/13 season on loan at FC Anji Makhachkala, was Russia’s top scorer en route to Israel, with Real Madrid CF winger Denis Cheryshev another key player in qualifying. The latter believes Russia have the qualities to do well, citing their “tight defensive Russia have enjoyed a unit and counterattacking threat”. breakthrough in getting Coach Pisarev favours a 4-3-3 formation and his team’s strong to Israel

46 Official Programme 2013 Best performance Group A Matches Quarter-finals in 1994, 1998 (winners with USSR in 1980, 1990) 6 June v Spain, Jerusalem Last final tournament appearance 9 June v Netherlands, Jerusalem 1998 (quarter-finals) 12 June v Germany, Netanya

Players

Qualifying Competition Date of Birth Apps/goals Apps/goals Club

Goalkeepers Aleksandr Filtsov 02/01/1990 0/0 8/0 FC Krasnodar Stanislav Kritsyuk 01/12/1990 0/0 0/0 SC Braga Miroslav Lobantsev 27/05/1995 0/0 1/0 FC Lokomotiv Moskva Nikolai Zabolotni 16/04/1990 10/0 10/0 FC Spartak Moskva

Defenders Maksim Belyaev 30/09/1991 5/0 6/0 FC Lokomotiv Moskva Taras Burlak 22/02/1990 7/0 7/0 FC Lokomotiv Moskva Nikita Chicherin 18/08/1990 8/0 10/0 FC Dinamo Moskva Ivan Kniazev 05/11/1992 0/0 2/0 FC Torpedo Moskva Arseni Logashov 20/08/1991 6/0 6/0 FC Anji Makhachkala Aleksei Nikitin 27/01/1992 0/0 1/0 FC Yenisey Krasnoyarsk Georgi Schennikov 27/04/1991 2/0 12/0 PFC CSKA Moskva Denis Terentyev 13/08/1992 0/0 1/0 FC Zenit St Petersburg Maksim Zhestokov 19/06/1991 1/0 7/0 FC Rubin Kazan Ilya Zuev 25/01/1994 0/0 0/0 FC Zenit St Petersburg interview

Midfielders Maksim Kanunnikov Nikita Bezlikhotnov 19/08/1990 0/0 0/0 FC Torpedo Moskva “We’re a team that focuses on Shota Bibilov 06/08/1990 6/1 6/1 FC Volga Nizhny Novgorod attacking and we create chances Sergei Bryzgalov 15/11/1992 0/0 4/0 FC Spartak Moskva in every game. We have played Alan Dzagoev 17/06/1990 0/0 1/0 PFC CSKA Moskva Roman Emelyanov 08/05/1992 0/0 3/0 FC Shakhtar Donetsk against leading sides like Portugal, Maksim Grigoryev 06/07/1990 5/1 6/1 FC Lokomotiv Moskva Spain and France and didn’t look Dmitri Kayumov 11/05/1992 1/0 2/0 FC Spartak Moskva any weaker, but in Israel, first of Arsen Khubulov 13/12/1990 1/0 1/0 FC Alania Vladikavkaz all, we need to qualify from the Yuri Kirillov 19/01/1990 5/1 7/1 FC Dinamo Moskva group. That would be a good Aleksei Miranchuk 17/10/1995 0/0 0/0 FC Lokomotiv Moskva result. It was an overwhelming Sergei Petrov 02/01/1991 9/0 9/0 FC Krasnodar feeling beating the Czech Republic Aleksei Pomerko 03/05/1990 0/0 0/0 FC Khimki to qualify as this hadn’t happened Oleg Shatov 29/07/1990 10/2 10/2 FC Anji Makhachkala to us for a long time. We have two Ivan Solovyov 29/03/1993 0/0 0/0 FC Dinamo Moskva or three players for each position Anton Sosnin 27/01/1990 3/1 13/1 FC Kuban Krasnodar Ibragim Tsallagov 12/12/1990 9/0 9/0 PFC Krylya Sovetov Samara and in the last couple of years the Vitali Ustinov 03/05/1991 0/0 0/0 FC Rubin Kazan coaching staff have been able to Aleksandr Zotov 27/08/1990 2/0 5/0 FC Spartak Moskva change the team around, which is important with players stepping Forwards up to the senior team – like Denis Cheryshev 26/12/1990 8/3 8/3 Real Madrid CF Aleksandr Kokorin, who scored five Artem Delkin 02/08/1990 1/0 4/0 PFC Krylya Sovetov Samara goals in qualifying. Maksim Kanunnikov 14/07/1991 9/0 10/0 FC Amkar Perm Aleksandr Kokorin 19/03/1991 3/5 10/7 FC Dinamo Moskva “It has worked out well and we Aleksandr Kozlov 19/03/1993 0/0 1/0 FC Spartak Moskva still have an excellent team and Andrei Panyukov 25/09/1994 0/0 1/0 FC Dinamo Moskva have progressed further. I look at Fedor Smolov 09/02/1990 9/7 15/8 FC Dynamo Moskva the development of a player like Pavel Yakovlev 07/04/1991 8/0 15/1 FC Spartak Moskva Oleg Shatov – we played together Initial 40-man selection; see UEFA.com for the official 23-man final tournament squad growing up in the same town as kids, and he is a little dynamo.” Number “We’re a team that focuses on attacking; we 7 create chances Fedor Smolov hit seven qualifying goals, but he was outscored by three players from teams in Group B in the preliminaries – Spain’s Rodrigo, the in every game” Netherlands’ Genero Zeefuik and Peniel Mlapa of Germany.

47 Group B Germany/Netherlands/Russia/Spain Germany

This is the ninth time that Germany Herrmann, ’s coach have qualified for the Under-21 final and FC Schalke 04’s tournament but a first for coach Sead Kolasinac, who featured in the Rainer Adrion Rainer Adrion, who was unable to knockout stages of the 2012/13 UEFA Born: 10/12/1953 lead the then reigning champions to Champions League. As a defender, Adrion spent most Denmark during his first campaign in It is a versatile squad, able to of his career outside Germany’s charge. switch from 4-2-3-1 to 4-4-2 but top flight – save for 22 He made amends this time round always showing an attacking intent. appearances for home-town club as his team dropped just two points This philosophy has left Germany VfB Stuttgart, whom he went on – in a 4-4 draw in their final Group 1 slightly open at the back and mixed to serve as assistant coach before fixture in Bosnia and Herzgovina – results in their pre-tournament taking sole charge of in 1999. and finished as the 39-goal leading friendlies – losing 1-0 in Italy, then It was his excellent work in two scorers in the group stage, with prevailing 2-1 in Israel through striker subsequent spells with Stuttgart’s Peniel Mlapa hitting eight of them. ’s late winner – left reserves, though, that led to his It then looked as if Germany had Adrion to suggest there was “room appointment as Horst Hrubesch’s fluffed their lines in the play-offs for improvement”. Yet his team will successor with the Germany when they drew the first leg 1-1 undoubtedly be aiming high. “We are Under-21s in 2009. His coaching at home to Switzerland, but they among the favourites,” he added. career has also included spells in stormed to a 3-1 win in Lucerne to “If we fulfil our potential, we will get charge of SpVgg Unterhaching confirm their place in Israel. through a tough group.” and Stuttgarter Kickers. Germany’s fine youth development work has yielded a wealth of young talents for Adrion to call upon, starting with Lewis Holtby, the Tottenham Hotspur FC midfielder who is adept at both scoring and creating goals and has won several senior caps already. Free-scoring Germany Alongside him in midfield are regular have their sights set on a Bundesliga starters such as VfL Borussia Mönchengladbach’s Patrick second title in four years

48 Official Programme 2013 Best performance Group B Matches Winners in 2009 6 June v Netherlands, Petah Tikva Last final tournament appearance 9 June v Spain, Netanya 2009 (winners) 12 June v Russia, Netanya

Players

Qualifying Competition Date of Birth Apps/goals Apps/goals Club

Goalkeepers 02/06/1990 3/0 11/0 SC Freiburg 12/05/1993 0/0 0/0 1. FC Köln 04/03/1992 4/0 6/0 Bayer 04 Leverkusen Alexander Schwolow 02/06/1992 0/0 0/0 SC Freiburg Lars Unnerstall 20/07/1990 0/0 0/0 FC Schalke 04

Defenders 16/08/1990 0/0 0/0 Hamburger SV 19/01/1994 0/0 0/0 SC Freiburg 07/04/1990 9/0 12/0 vfL Borussia Mönchengladbach 22/06/1990 10/0 13/0 Eintracht Frankfurt Jan Tilman Kirchhoff 01/10/1990 8/1 11/2 1. FSV Mainz 05 Sead Kolasinac 20/06/1993 0/0 0/0 FC Schalke 04 17/04/1992 0/0 0/0 UC Sampdoria Matthias Ostrzolek 05/06/1990 2/0 3/0 FC Augsburg Lasse Sobiech 18/01/1991 6/1 7/1 interview Oliver Sorg 29/05/1990 1/0 1/0 SC Freiburg Lewis Holtby 11/04/1991 2/0 4/0 TSG 1899 Hoffenheim “We have a lot of Bundesliga Midfielders experience and a strong squad; Karim Bellarabi 08/04/1990 4/0 4/0 Bayer 04 Leverkusen every one of us can score goals Leonardo Bittencourt 19/12/1993 0/0 0/0 Borussia Dortmund 12/01/1994 0/0 0/0 FC Bayern München and, especially up front, there are Christian Clemens 04/08/1991 0/0 0/0 1. FC Köln many talents coming through. Our Patrick Funk 11/02/1990 8/1 13/1 FC St. Pauli coach Rainer Adrion talks with us a Lewis Holtby 18/09/1990 9/5 13/7 Tottenham Hotspur FC lot; he gives his opinion and wants Julian Koch 11/11/1990 0/0 0/0 MSV Duisburg feedback and this cooperation 08/12/1992 0/0 9/3 Borussia Dortmund is fundamental. He made me Christoph Moritz 27/01/1990 1/0 5/0 FC Schalke 04 captain and I am thankful to him Shawn Parker 07/03/1993 0/0 0/0 1. FSV Mainz 05 and want to repay his trust. The Sebastian Rode 11/10/1990 2/0 4/0 Eintracht Frankfurt two years I have been U21 captain Antonio Rüdiger 03/03/1993 0/0 0/0 VfB Stuttgart have pushed me to improve. I 28/02/1990 7/1 14/1 TSG 1899 Hoffenheim Kevin Vogt 23/09/1991 3/0 4/0 FC Augsburg was never a guy who sat in the 06/08/1993 0/0 0/0 VfL Borussia Mönchengladbach corner and said yes to everything. I always wanted to have my say. Forwards The ironic thing is that before my Maximilian Beister 06/09/1990 10/4 10/4 Hamburger SV international debut with the U18s, Alexander Esswein 25/03/1990 10/5 10/5 1. FC Nürnberg I was always for England because Daniel Ginczek 13/04/1991 3/2 5/2 FC St. Pauli of my English father – he brought 12/02/1991 4/0 6/1 VfL Borussia Mönchengladbach Andre Hoffmann 28/02/1993 0/0 0/0 me up with England as the only Pierre-Michelle Lasogga 15/12/1991 5/3 6/3 Hertha BSC Berlin option. But your first international Peniel Mlapa 20/02/1991 11/8 12/8 vfL Borussia Mönchengladbach game, when you hear and sing the Sebastian Polter 01/04/1991 4/4 4/4 1. FC Nürnberg national anthem, impresses you a Kevin Volland 30/07/1992 4/0 5/0 TSG 1899 Hoffenheim lot. When you play for a country, Initial 40-man selection; see UEFA.com for the official 23-man final tournament squad you are 100% behind it.” “Every one of Number us can score goals and 43 there are many Germany were top scorers en route to Israel with 43 talents coming goals from 12 fixtures. They managed 97 shots on goal and an impressive strike rate of 3.58 goals per game. through”

49 COACHING FORUM

FINISHING SCHOOL All eyes may be on the trophy, but for the players there is more than silverware to gain at this tournament

50 Official Programme 2013 he growing profile of the UEFA at 17 to 22? Can we improve the way they Löw, but we also still want to win matches European Under-21 Championship conduct themselves?” Here Adrion, Pearce and be successful, and thus build up that means that the players of the eight and some of their fellow technicians at this winning mentality at an early stage.” teams competing in Israel will be tournament consider the importance of For Netherlands coach Cor Pot, the Tstepping into an international spotlight this competition – and reflect on their aims principal aspiration must be to win – of the kind few have known before. As for the coming fortnight. something he considers more crucial Germany coach Rainer Adrion put it: “We’ll than the Dutch philosophy of “beautiful be competing against the best teams, and Setting your goals football”. He explained: “I changed it a little every player can show what he can do at That sounds a straightforward task bit: [the] first [aim] is to win the match, this level. You enjoy the attention of the for an ambitious coach entering a big second is to score goals, third is to play nice whole of Europe.” This is a major stage on tournament, but with under-age footballers football. We always try to play attacking which to perform, yet are U21 tournaments there is always the additional factor of football, but sometimes it’s not possible, so purely about winning or are the coaches player development. According to Adrion: then you must be effective, and then you looking at a bigger picture and the longer- “Both [elements] are important. We have must try to win the game.” term development of their charges? As the task of educating further and preparing The expectation of victory will probably England’s Stuart Pearce himself asked: “Can the players for the A team, in close hang most heavily on the shoulders of we educate them, when we take them in collaboration with [national coach] Jogi holders Spain. Coach Julen Lopetegui

51 wants his players to reclaim their crown, to win, of course. I think they’ll agree that though he recognised that their senior we need to go for the victory.” counterparts’ unprecedented run of success Perhaps Guy Luzon, Israel’s coach, had increased the pressure to deliver. “This offered the most straightforward goal: is the moment to take a step forward, “The most important thing for me is to play because it is a high-profile tournament,” good football and show the world there is he said. “Playing for the Spanish shirt is good football in Israel. We are going to play something to be proud of and maybe we creative football, we are not coming to shut even have extra responsibility because of down the game and play defensively, no what has been achieved.” matter who the opponents are.” For others, expectations are not so great. Norway boss Tor Ole Skullerud said: Winning the mental battle “I’m looking at it as a great opportunity Italy boss Devis Mangia spoke of a simple for our boys to show on an international approach to guaranteeing his players give level what they can do away from Norway.” the best of themselves this month – he will a tournament like this represents a priceless Again, though, his thoughts are not entirely “tell them to enjoy it. If the enjoyment is learning opportunity – as it “mimics on the here and now: playing here “against missing, then the basis is missing. If you do everything you are ever going to find at A-level teams can help us progress and something with joy, you can achieve a lot.” senior level”. He continued: “There are very, reach other final tournaments,” he added. Getting the mental aspect right is key very few differences. The crowds might be Russia’s trainer Nikolai Pisarev, however, to ensuring that “tension doesn’t convert slightly bigger [but] the pressures of group said he would be targeting silverware as into fear”, revealed Mangia. “The young lads games will be the same, [with] everything the ideal springboard for his squad’s future are prepared in the days before a match, you’ll have to possibly go through – penalty prospects. “Usually the winners or finalists but when you get to the match itself you shoot-outs, extra time, playing when you at a championship will, in a year or two, need to free the mind and play.” And it are fatigued, a lot of games in a short space break through at senior level. This is why, helps, he believes, that players at this age of time. They have to handle all that, they with this generation of really talented are more open-minded than their senior have to handle being away from home. players, I would like to get to the final and counterparts. “It’s a very nice moment I have the hope that a lot of these players [in their lives], it’s a moment of growth, that come to Israel will be ready to go to because the young lads are mentally free at Brazil [for the FIFA World Cup] and know their age. These are lads you can work with.” what tournament football is all about.” To keep his proteges happy and relaxed, Even those who do not go on to become Netherlands coach Pot said it is wise to “not regulars for their senior teams, will become always focus on football” but give them the “more complete players” for the experience opportunity to do other things. “I am not in Israel, according Lopetegui of Spain. “For only a coach, I am a team builder. I think all the lads who are still very young, compared the coaches are team builders, because you with those who have their experience can’t talk about football for 24 hours a day. already, it will help them develop quicker.” Sometimes you change, you go to a movie, It is this progression that Dutchman Pot or you do something else – you play table enjoys witnessing. He has seen a number or tennis, you go . There of his U21 charges graduate to the seniors are so many things to do to give the brain a and, reflecting on this boys-to-men journey, bit of time to think about something else.” he said: “They come as young boys, with no experience, and in six months, a year, Building for tomorrow they change completely in how to be a For England’s Pearce, “the development professional player. They have to train for of the young players” remains the it, they have work for it, they have to live for greatest source of job satisfaction, and it.” Living it is what awaits them in Israel.

Previous page: Devis Mangia takes training. This page: “They come as young boys with Russia coach Nikolai Pisarev no experience and in six months, celebrates qualification a year, they change completely in (above); Germany’s how to be a professional player. Rainer Adrion issues They have to train for it, they have instructions to work for it, they have to live for it”

52 Official Programme 2013 Match ball

Win a match ball

For the chance to win an official 2013 UEFA European Under-21 Championship tournament ball keep your eyes on the @UEFAcom Twitter account on the day of the final, 18J une.

As well as details of how to win an 12 ball, @UEFAcom has all the latest news throughout the tournament.

@UEFAcom

A “friendly ball” was how UEFA European a more familiar arrangement of rubber flight of the ball and ensure that it responds Under-21 Championship ambassador Eli bladders with leather coatings became the well to all terrains and weather conditions. Ohana described the adidas Tango 12 which norm in the 20th century. Yet surprisingly The Tango 12 – used at UEFA EURO will be used at the final tournament in Israel, it was not until 1951 that white balls were 2012 and given a special makeover to but for all its simple appeal, the latest in a permitted, to help spectators get a clearer incorporate the colours and branding of the long line of official UEFA tournament balls view of the action in floodlit games. 2013 U21 final tournament – features a is the product of vast scientific research German sports company adidas took over series of triangular panels thermally bonded and development. as world leaders in ball technology from the together. Covering each panel is a grip “The adidas Tango 12 is a combination 1960s, supplying the official ball for every texture which supports boot-to-ball contact of many years of football tradition coupled major UEFA and FIFA tournament since and enhances ball control. Beneath the with extensive player and lab testing,” said 1970. The now familiar 32-panel design outer surface of the ball lies a woven carcass adidas Group CEO , adding first appeared in Mexico with the adidas and a new bladder for increased air retention that it was “the most tested ball , official match ball for the 1970 FIFA and reduced water uptake. has ever produced”. World Cup, and that ball was readjusted and Complicated on paper, it is nonetheless Ball technology has come a long way relaunched as the Telstar Mexico for the refreshingly simple in practice. “The ball is since the game’s infancy. Law 2 of the 1972 UEFA European Championship. very light and easy to control,” said former Laws of the Game specifies that a football Decades of testing – both in the Israel captain Avi Nimni, getting to grips with is “spherical”, “made of leather or other laboratory and on the pitch – brought the new product. “I hope we will see a lot of suitable material” and “of a circumference continued innovation, with scientists and goals in the tournament.” of not more than 70cm”. The very first balls engineers experimenting with different were made of vulcanised rubber, before materials and models in order to perfect the

53 travel Sun, sea and football Israel has it all, says former international Eli Ohana

54 Official Programme 2013 ne of the greatest footballers in Israeli history, attacker Eli Ohana played Syria abroad with KV Mechelen and SC Braga, but as the 49-year-old tells Ovisitors coming to the UEFA European Under-21 Netanya Petah Tikva Championship, there is no place quite like home. Tel Aviv Mediterranean Jerusalem “This is a chance for people to see the beautiful Sea Israel, the warm Israel, the friendly Israel. When I go abroad, I miss the weather, the friendliness, the fact that everyone looks you in the eye and ISRAEISRAELL Jordan everyone likes to help. You do not always see that in other places. “Jerusalem might be the most important city in the world, for Christians, Muslims and . Egypt I lived there until I was 40, then moved to Tel Aviv eight years ago – and I am loving every minute. Saudi People who know New York still tell me that, for Arabia them, Tel Aviv is the best city in the world. It has great food, great beaches and bars, and beautiful Wn he in Israel … people who love to dress beautifully. Petah Tikva is a historic place and Netanya is the region’s diamond city – it has everything besides the Hit the beach See Tel Aviv’s modernist name that Tel Aviv has. Tel Aviv has been classed masterpieces “As far as food is concerned, people will tell as one of the top ten beach The magnificent ‘White City’ you to try hummus and falafel, although those cities in the world, with the 1920s and 1930s buildings at are more from Lebanon and Egypt. But – and I glorious dunes looking onto the heart of Tel Aviv were made say this as a person who likes to eat – Israel has all the Mediterranean. a UNESCO World Heritage site kinds of food, and lots of places are open until in 2003. the early hours which is something London, Discover Jerusalem’s New York and Paris would be envious of. holy places Have a coffee “Here you can enjoy life, enjoy the sun, and The Dome of the Rock, the Enjoying a coffee is something when there’s top-level football to watch too, it is Western Wall and the Church of a national obsession, with the even better. Fans will just love it here. June is not of the Holy Sepulchre are the upside-down layered espresso too hot, but hot enough – perfect for the beach, key sites of a city central to cafe afuch a must-try. perfect for the cafes, perfect for a walk around.“ Judaism, Christianity and Islam. Try hummus V isit the Sea of Galilee A combination of mashed “Fans will love it here. June is A tourist destination as well chickpeas, tahini (ground as a pilgrimage one, the sesame seeds), olive oil, salt not too hot, but hot enough freshwater lake known locally and garlic, hummus is a local – perfect for the beach” as ‘Kinneret’ is surrounded by speciality. Masabacha – with superb countryside as well as whole chickpeas and hot sauce splendid beaches. – is the gourmet version.

Try local street food Get close to nature Schnitzel – with turkey rather in Petah Tikva than the traditional veal – is There are plenty of beautiful a popular pre-match bite, green spaces near Petah Tikva, along with Tunisian-style tuna yet the call of the wild can also sandwiches. Beteavon! be answered at the city’s small but perfectly formed zoo. Opposite: The view of FloatintheDead Sea the old city Within day-trip range of Go wild in Netanya in Jerusalem. Jerusalem, the famous Netanya has sensational Left: The Tel saltwater lake is over 400m beaches, but if you fancy Aviv coast below sea level, with a dip in a trip to the rainforest, its waters believed to bring a head inland to the nearby variety of health benefits. Utopia Orchid Park.

55 match officials L earning curve The Under-21s was “crucial to my education as a referee”, says Portugal’s Pedro Proença

t is not only players that benefit from match gets closer the tension levels rise and the experience of taking part in the every referee handles pressure differently, UEFA European Under-21 Championship. but always with the same objective, which Match officials also get a grounding is ensuring that our performance will be Iin international competition which good. But that tension is always contagious, serves them throughout their careers. and it keeps rising until the moment the Pedro Proença is a case in point. In 2012 match starts.” the Portuguese refereed both the UEFA Champions League and UEFA EURO 2012 ‘You want a referee to act, not react’ finals – just three years on from officiating “Mental strength is partly what you at the 2009 UEFA European Under-21 are born with, but the rest you gain by Championship final tournament in Sweden. working. The intellectual capacities and Here the 42-year-old financial advisor the mental strength that we have come discusses teamwork, pressure and what it with experience, and the level at which takes to make the grade in refereeing today. we referee matches. You want a referee to act, and not react, and that ability, ‘Fantastic memories’ that emotional intelligence, is something “I had the chance to be involved in the that comes to you with time.” U21 final tournament in Sweden, and it was crucial to my education as a referee. ‘UEFA EURO 2012 was extraordinary’ You need to take things step by step to get “On the day I found out that I would be through your basic education, and I have refereeing the final, all of my colleagues fantastic memories of that tournament. congratulated me and understood that In terms of my development, it was critical it was also a victory for them. That is the – it is thanks to that experience that I am only way you can see it after doing a hard a better referee now.” job together for more than 30 days, and it is only with a positive atmosphere like that ‘Make use of every opportunity’ that is it possible for a tournament with so “The message I would give to the referees many matches to go so well. It was a victory at the U21 finals is that they should make for football, it was a victory for refereeing, use of every opportunity they get to and I’m very proud to have been part of become better referees. These are unique that group.” occasions for learning, for working together, for being with people who know a lot about ‘Embrace refereeing’ football, and refereeing in particular. If “If any young people watching these they are happy and make use of all these games feel they have dedication, if they opportunities, one day they will reach the like hard work, if they like football, and if top, and they will achieve success.” they think they have the personality to be a referee, they should go for it, believe in their ‘Every referee handles pressure abilities, and believe that they can make it. differently’ With willpower you can achieve what you “The sense of responsibility ahead of a big want, so they should embrace refereeing game is immense. The time leading up to like I did, and I’m sure that one day they a big match is strange. Of course, as the will be successful.”

56 Official Programme 2013 Match officials

Referees Ivn a Bebek Croatia 30/05/1977 Antony Gautier France 19/11/1977 PaweŁ Gil Poland 28/06/1976 Ovidiu HaŢegan Romania 14/07/1980 Matej Jug Slovenia 25/09/1980 SerHiY BoYko Ukraine 30/06/1977

Additional assistant referees Sébastien Delferiere Belgium 02/07/1981 Miroslav Zelinka Czech Republic 23/02/1981 Kenn Hansen Denmark 29/05/1980 Kristo Tohver Estonia 11/06/1981 Antti Munukka Finland 03/03/1982 Ilias Spathas Greece 18/02/1980 Ivan KruŽliak Slovakia 24/03/1984 Halis Özkahya Turkey 30/05/1980

Assistant refereesDem que velecus si cus, ullore minciaecae volori nos R oland BrANDNER velecus si dolupicabo Austria 24/01/1978 Ivo Kolev Bulgaria 25/06/1979 DmitrI Zhuk Belarus 22/04/1986 Vencel TÓth Hungary 24/03/1978 Johann Gunnar Gudmundsson Iceland 08/09/1978 Haralds Gudermanis Latvia 14/10/1979 Alan Mulvanny Scotland 13/03/1980 Sandro Pozzi Switzerland 03/11/1980

“ These are unique occasions for Fourth officials learning and for working together” D anny Krasikow Israel 05/02/1973 Nissan Davidy Israel 01/01/1972

57 Competition records

Facts and figures Nine nations have lifted the trophy, with Yugoslavia the first winners in 1978

All-time scorers Final tournament top scorers All-time appearances Andrea Pirlo 15 Lampros Choutos Greece 32 James Milner E nGLAND I tALY, 2000 15 Tomáš Pekhart C ubliczeCH Rep 29 Jan Polák C ubliczECH Rep Ialy t , 2004 14 Klaas-Jan Huntelaar Netherlands Klaas- Jan Huntelaar 28 Mickaël Landreau Fancer Netherlands, 2006 14 Roy Makaay Netherlands 7 27 Serbia Maceo Rigters 12 jan Chramosta C ubliczeCH Rep S wEDEN, 2009 Netherlands, 2007 26 Jean-François Gillet Belgium J ohan Elmander 12 Norway S wEDEN, 2004 26 Jonas Kamper D eNMARK 12 Francis Jeffers E nGLAND 25 Alexander Farnerud S wEDEN

12 Óscar García Sinpa 5 24 S wEDEN Adrián López 12 Imre Szabics HungARY S pAIN, 2011 4 24 Giorgos Karagounis Greece 24 Alain Rochat S wITZERLAND

Roll of honour 2011 Spain 2009 Germany 2007 Netherlands 2006 Netherlands 2004 Italy 2002 Czech Republic 2000 Italy 1998 Spain 1996 Italy 1994 Italy 1992 Italy 1990 USSR 1988 France 1986 Spain 1984 England 1982 England 1980 USSR

1978 Yugoslavia

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