| 29 July 2010
Israel forward Guy Pnini is focusing all of his attention on facing Italy in their first EuroBasket qualifier after they wrapped up preparations by beating Belgium to win the tournament in Tel Aviv on Wednesday night.
Israel topped Belgium 69-64 and all attention will now turn to the opening game against Italy in Bari on Monday night.
"We're expecting a difficult game," Pnini said.
"Each player is aware of the importance and we need to be as focused as we were in the second half against Belgium and play with character.
"At half-time (against Belgium) we said in the locker room at half-time we had to pick it up or we'd lose. In the official games it needs to be like that from the beginning."
Although Israel have enjoyed an outstanding warm-up campaign, winning a total of seven of their nine games, including all three in Tel Aviv this week, Pnini warned they are not done yet.
"There are still many things we need to work on and improve," he said.
"Both professionally and in terms of chemistry between the players. Some players only joined us later and it is not easy to keep the same balance. All of us must give our best and do everything to help the team succeed." |
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