Maccabi Tel Aviv's Ofek Melika to Start Against Lugano Despite Rotation Plans

Maccabi Tel Aviv will face Lugano tonight in the second leg of their Conference League qualifier, aiming to overturn a 2-1 deficit from the first match. Despite initial considerations to rest him and give playing time to Roee Meshpati ahead of the league match against Maccabi Haifa, goalkeeper Ofek Melika will start in goal for coach Kenny Miller. Injured goalkeeper Shagiv Yehezkel remains sidelined with a groin injury, expected to recover in about two weeks. Additionally, Said Abu Farhi will not be available after traveling to the United States to finalize a transfer to Colorado.

Approximately 1,000 fans are expected to support Maccabi Tel Aviv in Batumi, Georgia, as the team looks to avoid elimination from the Conference League. The squad's morale has improved following a strong performance against Hapoel Jerusalem in the league, boosting confidence for tonight's match. Striker Astr Sukler will lead the attack seeking his second goal for the club, while Dor Peretz aims to continue his positive momentum after scoring a hat-trick recently. Oshir Davida is also expected to continue playing on the wing.

The probable starting lineup includes Ofek Melika in goal; defenders Noam Ben Harush (or Itay Ben Hamo), Raz Shlomo, Ali Kamara, and Roy Revivo; midfielders Isof Sisoko, Ido Shahar, and Dor Peretz; and forwards Oshir Davida, Astr Sukler, and Helio Varela.