Guttman steps down following Israel’s Euro 2016 failure

However, Gutman chose to make the first move and notified Israel Football Association chairman Ofer Eini that he will be leaving following Tuesday’s match in Brussels.

Media reports in Israel say mid-table Hapoel Tel Aviv are interested in re-hiring him as they seek to regain their once-dominant position in Israel.

“I had the great privilege of guiding the Israel national team in the past two campaigns, this remains the professional summit for every Israeli coach”.

Eini said the IFA will take its time before naming a new coach.

“Devils party, Orange in deep mourning”, wrote broadsheet De Morgen, referring to the failure of neighbours and arch-rivals the Netherlands to qualify for Euro 2016.

“I’ve won prizes in my career, and this isn’t a prize as such, but today the Dutch are out and we’re number one”, he told reporters with a smile.

Guttman’s appointment in 2011 was widely welcomed but his charges disappointed with dour displays in the 2014 World Cup qualifiers, when they finished third in a group that included Russian Federation, Portugal, Azerbaijan, Northern Ireland and Luxembourg.

“I think the expectations are for Belgium to get to the semi-finals”. “Someone who doesn’t even try can’t succeed”.

Belgium’s rise to the top has been spectacular, from 71st, among the likes of Zambia and Uzbekistan, to their current third place.

De Bruyne’s dipping and bouncing free kick was also too much for Marciano in the 78th minute and Mertens was on hand again six minutes later to find an unmarked Eden Hazard in front of goal, for an easy finish.

Kompany, who has just returned from a calf injury, played for just under an hour against Israel. “It was one the best matches that we’ve played”. “If Israel hasn’t reached any major tournament in more than 40 years than maybe the problem goes beyond a given squad”.