The Moldovan national team hosts Israel in Chișinău for a crucial Group D UEFA qualifier, as both teams look to jumpstart their World Cup campaigns with vital early points. Reports suggest that the upcoming match between Israel vs Moldova presents significant challenges for the squads. The game has also emerged as one of the most politically charged encounters of the 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign.
Moldova, under the guidance of manager Serghei Cleșcenco, will leverage home support, while Israel seeks consistency after mixed Nations League results.
Both Moldova and Israel have experienced contrasting World Cup journeys. Moldova is yet to qualify for the tournament, often falling short in European qualifying, while Israel’s sole appearance in 1970 remains a historic high, driving their determination to return to football’s biggest stage.
Moldova vs Israel FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifying Match, team news, H2H, lineups, and prediction
Moldova boss Serghei Clescenco is looking for the first win against Israel. The Israeli soccer team has won four of the nation’s last five contests while scoring 12 goals in the last World Cup Qatar.
- Date: Tuesday, September 9, 2025
- Time: 19:00 EEST (16:00 UTC)
- Venue: Zimbru Stadium, Chișinău, Moldova
- Competition: 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualification – UEFA Group D
Recent Form
Moldova – Last 5 Matches
| Date | Opponent | Result | Competition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jun 7, 2025 | Luxembourg | D 1-1 | Friendly |
| Mar 25, 2025 | Armenia | L 0-2 | WC Qual |
| Mar 22, 2025 | Finland | L 1-3 | Nations League |
| Nov 17, 2024 | Azerbaijan | W 2-0 | Nations League |
| Nov 14, 2024 | San Marino | W 3-1 | Nations League |
Israel – Last 5 Matches
| Date | Opponent | Result | Competition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jun 9, 2025 | Cyprus | W 2-0 | WC Qual |
| Jun 6, 2025 | Bulgaria | D 1-1 | WC Qual |
| Mar 24, 2025 | Norway | L 0-2 | Nations League |
| Mar 21, 2025 | Scotland | D 0-0 | Nations League |
| Nov 15, 2024 | Albania | W 1-0 | Nations League |
Head to Head
Moldova and Israel have met 3 times, with Israel winning twice and one draw. The aggregate goals stand at 5–2 in Israel’s favor.
| Matches Played | Moldova Wins | Israel Wins | Draws | Goals For Moldova | Goals For Israel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 5 |
Team News
Moldova will be without key midfielder Ion Unsai due to suspension. Manager Serghei Cleșcenco may opt for a defensive 4-5-1 to frustrate the visitors. Striker Dan Spătaru will lead the attack, hoping to exploit set-piece opportunities.
Israel welcomes back captain Bibras Natkho in midfield after injury. Manager Willibald Ruttensteiner retains faith in winger Manor Solomon, whose pace and direct style could trouble Moldova’s backline. Defender Ofri Arad returns following a minor knock.
Current Possible Starting Lineup of Moldova vs Israel
Moldova Prediction XI
- Avram; Baboglo, Craciun, Dumbravanu; Platica, Motpan, Rata, Reabciuk; Caimacov, Ionita; Postolachi
Israel Prediction XI
- Da. Peretz; Dasa, Shlomo, Nachmias, Revivo; Do. Peretz, E. Peretz; Biton, Gloukh, Solomon; Turgeman
Match Prediction
Israel’s superior head-to-head record and recent qualifying form make them slight favorites. Expect a cagey affair early on, with Israel edging possession and Moldova looking to counter. Predicted score:
- Moldova 0-1 Israel.
How to Watch Moldova vs Israel FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifying Match
The TV broadcasting rights for the 2026 FIFA World Cup European Qualifiers matches are shared among multiple media houses.
- United Kingdom: Sky Sports Football
- United States: Paramount+ / FS1
- Europe: UEFA.tv (selected regions)
- Moldova: Moldova 1