Sakhnin Coach Abuksis Aims for Home Win Against Maccabi Petah Tikva

Bnei Sakhnin is set to host Maccabi Petah Tikva in Doha on the evening of August 29, 2026, with kickoff at 19:40, broadcast live on Sport5. Coach Yossi Abuksis expressed optimism following a recent draw against Maccabi Netanya, despite the team’s limited ball possession and offensive threat in that match. He expects a significant improvement in the team’s attacking performance for this home game, emphasizing the importance of securing a win to build confidence for the season ahead.

A single lineup change is anticipated, with Romanian forward Daniel Preskiv starting in place of Basil Khouri. Preskiv will partner with Matthew Kodjo upfront, supported by midfielder Ilai Hajaj. Ahmad Salman, the team’s standout attacker last season, will again start as the right winger. The club is actively seeking to strengthen this position, including exploring foreign player options.

Goalkeeper Raul Belbrau, who impressed in the previous match, stated the team had a successful training week and is ready to claim three points at home. Ahead of the game, fan representatives attended the final training session to present flowers to players Iyad Abu Abid and Ilai Hajaj, who were attacked by rival fans after the match against Netanya.

The expected starting lineup includes Raul Belbrau; Ahmad Salman, Maron Gentous, Dmitry Kabra, Amit Karadi, Sana Gomes; Modestas Vorobiovs, Mustafa Sheikh Yosef, Ilai Hajaj; Matthew Kodjo, and Daniel Preskiv.