Eli Guttman says he takes full responsibility for Israel's 2-1 defeat against Cyprus which effectively ended the home side's hopes of reaching the Euro 2016 playoffs.
Israel went into the game needing four points from their final two matches but Cyprus's first-ever victory on Israeli soil means Guttman's men must beat Belgium on Tuesday and hope other results go their way.
Wins for Bosnia's over Wales and Belgium in Andorra means the two automatic qualification places have now gone, and Israel needing a miracle in the final round of games in three days time.
The match in Jerusalem sparked to life in the 58th minute when Dossa Júnior capitalised on some sloppy defending to head high into the net.
Nir Bitton drew Israel level with a wonder strike 18 minutes later but, with the hosts searching for a winner, they were caught on the counter as Jason Demetriou latched on to Constantinos Charalambides's through ball inside the area before lashing into the top corner.
Israel tried desperately to find the net again, with substitute Tomer Hemed heading wide in the closing stage to leave Cyprus celebrating at the final whistle.
Guttman described the defeat as "one of the most disappointing moments in my career".
He said: "When you have a chance like this and you don't take it, you don't deserve to even dream about finishing third.
"There was no implementation of any plan today and I take full responsibility... I have not been able to leave my mark on the team,"
Saturday's results mean that Bosnia have climbed into the third and final play-off place, one point ahead of Israel, following their 2-0 win over Wales. They host Cyprus in their final match on Tuesday while Israel travel to Belgium.
Israel: Marciano, Dasa (sub: Dgani), Ben Haim I, Ben Harush (sub: Hemed), Tibi, Bitton, Zahavi, Kayal, Vermouth (sub: Melikson), Dabbur, Ben Haim II. Subs: Levi, Haimov, Davidzada, Tzedek, Peretz, Rikan, Kehat, Abed, Damari
CURRENT STANDINGS
1. Belgium Pl. 9, Pts. 20
2. Wales Pl. 9, Pts. 18
3. Bosnia & H Belgium Pl. 9, Pts. 14
4. Israel Pl. 9, Pts. 13
5. Cyprus Pl. 9, Pts. 12
6. Andorra Pl. 9, Pts. 0
