Maccabi Tel Aviv Eliminated From European Competition in August for First Time Since 2022

Maccabi Tel Aviv was knocked out of European competition in August for the first time since 2022 after losing 2-1 to FC Lugano in the Conference League playoff. The defeat marks the end of one of the worst summers under owner Mitch Goldhar, following earlier elimination from the Europa League qualifiers and a heavy 3-0 loss to CSKA Sofia in Georgia. Despite Lugano playing with ten men and Maccabi taking an early lead through a penalty by Dor Peretz, a defensive error by Noam Ben Harush and a poor challenge by Ali Mohamed Kamara allowed Lugano to equalize and eventually win.

The team had opportunities to push the match into extra time but failed to capitalize, reflecting a broader pattern of poor preparation, lack of quality signings, and a disorganized summer transfer window. Criticism is widespread within the club, from management including Goldhar, Jack Englidis, and Steven Vanharan, to players like Kenny Miller. The club’s failure to qualify for European competition raises doubts about its ability to compete for the Israeli league title this season, even if new foreign players or Gabi Kanikovski return. The club, a prestigious Israeli cup holder, is facing a challenging season after years of European participation, highlighting the need for better planning and squad strengthening.