Israel's Boaz Mauda
Photo: AFP
Israel reaches Eurovision final
Singer Boaz Mauda survives first round of European song contest; his son 'The Fire in Your Eyes' to compete in Saturday's final in Belgrade
Israeli singer Boaz Mauda reached the 53rd Eurovision Song Contest final after making it through the first semi-final held in Belgrade on Tuesday evening with his song "The Fire in Your Eyes" (music and lyrics: Dana International and Shai Kerem).
The nine other countries selected by viewers across Europe to take part in Saturday's final include Greece, Romania, Bosnia Herzegovina, Finland, Russia, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Poland and Norway.
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Israeli delegation rejoices at the Green Room
Mauda, who performed his song wearing a silver-blue vest, was accompanied by five backup singers and the prayers of Israeli Eurovision fans worldwide. He was cheered by dozens of Israelis waving the nation's flags.
Five countries have already guaranteed their place in the final: The four financing states – the United Kingdom, France, Germany and Spain – and Serbia due to last year's victory.
