Maccabi Tel Aviv Coach Kenny Miller Stresses Importance of Conference League Playoff Match Against Lugano

Maccabi Tel Aviv is set to host Swiss club Lugano tomorrow at Batumi Stadium in the decisive second leg of the UEFA Conference League playoff. The Israeli team enters the match trailing 2-1 from the first leg. Coach Kenny Miller expressed confidence ahead of the game, highlighting the team’s strong recent league performance and thorough preparation despite a congested schedule involving Toto Cup, league, and European matches.

Miller acknowledged the disappointment from conceding goals in the first leg but emphasized that the away deficit is manageable. He noted that the squad is coping with some injuries but remains largely healthy and ready to compete. The coach also welcomed the return of Maccabi’s fans to the stands in Batumi, praising their passionate support and its positive impact on the team’s home-like atmosphere during European fixtures.

Looking ahead, Miller underscored the significance of the match as an opportunity to secure a place in the group stage of a European competition. He stressed that every player understands the stakes and is prepared to meet the challenge. The game is scheduled for Thursday, August 27, 2026, with Maccabi aiming to overturn the narrow first-leg deficit in front of their supporters.