Maccabi Represent Israel at the Carnival of Nations Women’s Football Championship

Source: The Australian Jewish News

The Maccabi FC Wild Bees team represented Israel with pride in Football Victoria’s 2025 Carnival of Nations tournament in the over- 30 women’s division, overcoming extreme weather and fierce competition to finish in third place overall.

Held in Bundoora at the home of the Matildas across the last three weekends, the Maccabi Wild Bees excelled, despite their journey in the tournament beginning with an unexpected hurdle.

Initially organisers told the team they could not compete under the name Israel, despite the country’s FIFA recognition and full compliance with competition rules.

Following internal discussions, Football Victoria reversed its decision.

Reflecting on that, the team’s manager Talya Bassin said, “I am relieved that Football Victoria saw the error in their [earlier] decision, so we could proudly represent Israel.

“It is a small but powerful reminder that respectful dialogue can make a difference and that there can be fairness and inclusion in sport – something that is lacking in the world’s sporting arena at the moment.”

Week one of the tournament set a positive tone on the field for the team, which earned draws against strong sides representing Denmark and New Zealand.

Bassin described the second week as feeling straight out of Parashat Noah, as under torrential rain the Maccabi Wild Bees swept to a 9–0 victory over Scotland, before the pitch became unplayable.