Gazal, Ravid

Gazal is a versatile midfielder who can play either on the right or in the center of midfield. He is capable of either bursting up the flank or playing in a holding role, depending on the circumstances. The youngster plays for Maccabi Haifa and has played an important for the Israeli national team in the 2006 World Cup qualification campaign.

Birth and Death Dates:
b. July 9, 1982

Career Highlights:
Ravid is the son of former Netanya player Albert Gazal. The midfielder starred for the Maccabi Netanya youth team and was already a member of the Israeli Olympic team when he was promoted to the senior team in the year 2000. Gazal scored his first goal for the Olympic team in a 4-2 victory over Bosnia in September, 2001. He would go on to play for them 17 times.

In Gazal's first season for Netanya (2000-01), he started only six games and appeared as a substitute thrice. Netanya finished seventh in the league and began to base itself heavily on home-grown product. In 2001-02, the midfielder proved himself worthy of a starting berth and the thoughtfulness inherent to his play belied his lack of experience. Gazal started 20 games as Netanya placed seventh in the Israeli Premier league once more.

By the 2002-03 campaign, the youngster was a complete article. His stability and intelligence in midfield was matched by a new spark of creativity. Gazal provided marvelous through passes for forwards Ismael Ado and Ruslan Lubarsky, as he chalked up five assists in 32 appearances. The "diamonds" enjoyed an impressive season, finishing fourth in the league despite meager funds.

The 2003-04 season was a disaster for Netanya, though Ravid's reputation was largely unscathed by the experience. Netanya's offensive impotence was staggering as it scored a mere 28 goals all season, on their way to unexpected relegation. Gazal fulfilled his role capably and even scored his first Premier League goal against Hapoel Petah Tikva.

Not surprisingly, the rising star jumped from the sinking Netanya ship at the first opportunity. After protracted negotiations, Gazal signed for Maccabi Haifa on July 30, 2004. The youngster is set to fight for his first team place in his first year up north.

Origin:
Netanya, Israel

Career Dates:
Player: 2000-

Position:
Defensive midfielder center or right

Career Statistics:
7 caps

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