Israel kept its momentum going with an 11-6 win over New Zealand in placement play, its third win in a row at the 2025 World Lacrosse Men’s U20 Championship in Korea on Thursday.
After falling to Ireland and Mexico, Israel closed out pool play with a win over China and then opened the placement bracket with a win over Kenya.
New Zealand was coming off a win against Hong Kong, China, but Israel pulled out a scrappy victory keyed by an active defense, allowing just two goals until the fourth quarter when it already had built up an 8-2 lead.
While the total shots were close, Israel edged New Zealand in shots on goal 21-12 and dominated face-offs 16-4.
Israel will face the host Korea for 13th place in an exciting final game for both teams on Saturday at 12 p.m.
New Zealand will take on an Asia-Pacific foe in China for 15th place on Saturday at 12:10 p.m.
Jacob Coneh won 80% of draw controls and Israel goalkeeper Eyvatar Bahar made six saves out of 12 shots on goal. Bahar has made the sixth most saves among all goalkeepers in the championship.
Max Youssefnia and Gary Felsher continued their goalscoring form with four tallies each. Maor Glickman added two assists.
Kieran Snape made seven saves for New Zealand while Ben Cowen and Sam Denize scored twice.
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