Palermo has been confirmed as Israel’s new home for their European Championship group one qualifying ties, starting with the tie against holders France on April 2.

The unstable security situation in Israel means the country cannot host any official UEFA tournament matches.

Security and insurance complications led to the collapse of attempts to secure a temporary new ‘home’ for the Israeli national team in Bucharest, north London (Tottenham) and Watford.

The Favorita stadium in Palermo was built for the 1990 World Cup finals and is permanent home to the Sicilian city’s Serie B club.
By Keir Radnedge