Maccabi Tel Aviv Seeks Comeback Against Lugano in Conference League Playoff
Maccabi Tel Aviv faces a crucial home match on Thursday in Batumi against Lugano, aiming to overturn a 2-1 first-leg loss in Switzerland and advance to the Conference League group stage. The Israeli cup holders dropped from the Europa League qualifiers after elimination by CSKA Sofia and are striving to avoid missing European group stage football for the first time in four years.
Coach Keni Miller reinstated most of the starting lineup from last week's defeat, with Tyrese Asante deployed as a center-back alongside Mohamed Ali Kamara and Raz Shlomo. Isuf Sisoko was preferred in midfield, while Oshar Davida, Helio Varela, and Ester Sokler led the attack following the departure of Said Abu Farhi. Goalkeeper Ofek Malika was chosen over Roy Meshpati.
The match attracted a large crowd of Maccabi supporters in Batumi, underscoring the high stakes. Lugano fielded David Von Belmos in goal, with a defensive line including Antonius Papadopoulos and Lars Lucas Mai. The game represents a pivotal moment for Maccabi Tel Aviv’s European ambitions this season.
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