Hapoel Haifa Coach Calls Upcoming Match Against Champions Hapoel Be'er Sheva Toughest Test

Hapoel Haifa is preparing to face Hapoel Be'er Sheva in a postponed Israeli Premier League match from the first round, scheduled for Wednesday evening at 8:00 PM. Hapoel Haifa's coach, Haim Silvas, described the upcoming game as "the toughest match possible" against the league champions in an away game, but expressed his team's determination to "fight to come away with the points."

Two weeks prior, the two teams met in the Toto Cup, where Hapoel Haifa secured a decisive 4-0 victory. However, Hapoel Be'er Sheva fielded a reserve squad during that match due to their participation in Champions League qualifiers. Hapoel Haifa anticipates a different challenge from Be'er Sheva this time but remains confident, stating, "We respect the champions, but we will do everything to come away from Turner with points. That is always Hapoel Haifa's goal, against any opponent."

The team is expected to make no more than two changes to its lineup. Ivan Kritzak will be suspended and replaced by George Diba in central defense. Wahib Habiballah has returned to fitness and is competing with Yead Gonen for the right wing position. Shi Elias is set to start against his former club from last season. William Agada, not yet fit for a full 90 minutes, is expected to start on the bench. The projected lineup includes Yoav Gerafi in goal, Noam Cohen and Dor Malul as fullbacks, Dario Zupearic and George Diba in central defense, Naor Sabag and Keita Chic in midfield, Shi Elias, Wahib Habiballah or Yead Gonen, Alon Turgeman, and Liran Rotman in attack.