Emmanuel Scheffer, German-Israeli footballer, coach, and manager (d. 2012)

Emmanuel Scheffer (Hebrew: עמנואל שפר), a towering figure in Israeli football, was born on 1 February 1924 in Germany and passed away on 28 December 2012 at the age of 88. His profound impact on the sport spanned both his playing days and, more significantly, his distinguished coaching career, particularly with the Israel national football team.

A Career Forged in Football

Scheffer's journey in football began as a player. He served as a defender for prominent Israeli clubs such as Hapoel Haifa and Hapoel Kfar Saba. Though his playing career saw him earn a single cap for the Israel national team, it was merely a prelude to his far-reaching influence as a coach, where he would leave an indelible mark on the nation's sporting history.

Leading the Israel National Team to Unprecedented Heights

Emmanuel Scheffer twice held the prestigious position of manager for the Israel national football team, first during a pivotal period from 1968 to 1970, and again from 1978 to 1979. His first tenure is widely regarded as the most successful in the team's history, marked by two monumental achievements on the international stage.

Under Scheffer's astute leadership, Israel made significant strides. He guided the team to the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City, where they delivered a remarkable performance. In a testament to their growing prowess, Israel advanced to the quarter-finals. In a dramatic turn of events, they drew 1-1 with Bulgaria. According to the rules of the tournament at the time, the tie was decided by a coin toss, which unfortunately went in Bulgaria's favour, preventing Israel from progressing further. Despite this, their quarter-final appearance was a notable achievement, showcasing the team's competitive spirit on a global platform.

The Historic 1970 FIFA World Cup Appearance

The Qualification Journey

The path to Mexico 1970 was historic for Israel. Competing in the Asia/Oceania qualification zone, they successfully navigated their way through the regional qualifiers, demonstrating tactical discipline and resilience. Their journey included notable victories, ultimately culminating in securing their spot against stronger regional competitors. This qualification, while coming from a less competitive zone compared to European or South American qualifiers, was a monumental achievement for the developing football nation.

Performance on the World Stage

At the 1970 World Cup, Israel was drawn into a challenging Group 2 alongside formidable opponents: football giants Italy (who would go on to be finalists), two-time World Cup winners Uruguay, and a strong Swedish side. Despite being considered significant underdogs, Scheffer’s team displayed incredible fortitude and tactical acumen.

• Match 1 vs. Uruguay: Israel succumbed to a 0-2 defeat against the South American powerhouse, but not without putting up a resilient fight.
• Match 2 vs. Sweden: In a truly historic moment, Israel secured a 1-1 draw against Sweden. Mordechai Spiegler, Israel's legendary forward, scored the team's only goal of the tournament, etching his name, and Scheffer's team, into World Cup history.
• Match 3 vs. Italy: In their final group stage match, Israel held Italy to a courageous 0-0 draw. This result was particularly impressive given Italy's eventual progression to the final.

Although Israel finished last in their group, failing to advance to the knockout stages, their two draws against European powerhouses and their overall resilient performances earned them respect and demonstrated that Israeli football could compete at the highest level. This appearance instilled immense national pride and significantly boosted the sport's popularity within the country.

Later Career and Enduring Legacy

Scheffer returned to manage the national team for a second stint from 1978 to 1979, though this period did not yield similar international tournament qualifications. Throughout his career, he was also involved in various other coaching and advisory roles within Israeli football, consistently contributing to its development. His tactical insight and leadership qualities made him a revered figure.

Emmanuel Scheffer's passing on 28 December 2012 marked the end of an era for Israeli football. His legacy is not merely defined by the statistics of matches won or lost, but by the pioneering spirit he instilled and the unforgettable moments he delivered, most notably leading the Israel national team to their only FIFA World Cup appearance. He remains an iconic figure, a testament to what dedication and vision can achieve in sports.

Frequently Asked Questions About Emmanuel Scheffer

Who was Emmanuel Scheffer?

Emmanuel Scheffer was a German-born Israeli football player and, more prominently, a highly influential coach. He is best known for managing the Israel national football team during their most successful period, particularly leading them to their only FIFA World Cup appearance in 1970.

What were Emmanuel Scheffer's main achievements as a coach?

His primary achievements include managing the Israel national team at the 1968 Summer Olympics, where they reached the quarter-finals, and most notably, guiding the team to their historic and only FIFA World Cup appearance in 1970.

When did Israel qualify for the FIFA World Cup under Scheffer?

Israel qualified for the 1970 FIFA World Cup in Mexico, under the management of Emmanuel Scheffer. This was their first and only participation in the tournament to date.

How did Israel perform at the 1970 FIFA World Cup?

At the 1970 World Cup, Israel played in Group 2. They secured two memorable draws: 1-1 against Sweden (with Mordechai Spiegler scoring Israel's only World Cup goal) and 0-0 against eventual finalists Italy. They lost their opening match 0-2 against Uruguay. Despite not progressing from the group stage, their performance earned them international respect.