Analysis The numbers behind the result
Ireland ruthlessly clinical despite Israel's possession dominance
Israel's 64% possession yielded little cutting edge as Ireland clinically converted their limited chances in a 3-0 away win. Despite taking more shots (8 to 9 overall), Israel managed just 3 inside the box compared to Ireland's 6 - with the visitors scoring all three goals in a decisive 12-minute first-half spell through Troy Parrott (13'), Adam Idah (16'), and Jack Moylan (25').
Ireland's geometric superiority was stark - their 36% possession translated into equal shots on target (3) and higher-quality chances (expected goals unavailable but 6 vs 3 inside-box shots telling). Israel's goalkeeper made zero saves, while Ireland's back three (O'Shea, O'Brien, Kitching) and keeper Kelleher kept a clean sheet against 4 Israeli shots on target.
The key number was conversion: Ireland scored from 3 of their 3 shots on target, while Israel failed with all 4 of theirs. Moylan's goal and assist epitomized Ireland's ruthless efficiency against possession-heavy but chance-light opponents.