Maccabi Haifa Coach Baruch Bakhar to Make Lineup Changes Against Hapoel Petah Tikva

Maccabi Haifa manager Baruch Bakhar is expected to make significant lineup changes for their upcoming match against Hapoel Petah Tikva, as the team seeks to recover from a recent loss to Maccabi Tel Aviv. Bakhar has yet to settle on a consistent starting eleven for the season and is reportedly considering benching captain Kanga Hooreb, who has not met expectations so far. Iyad Hallaili and Yair Mordechai are contenders to replace him, while Silva Kani is also likely to be moved to the bench.

Andrea Novakovic is anticipated to make his first start for Bakhar's squad, with high hopes that he will provide offensive contributions, unlike his recent seasons in Italy. Ali Mohamed is set to start in midfield after impressing as a substitute in the last two games, though the coaching staff is deliberating whether he or Yarin Levi will start.

Another potential shift involves Kenny Saif, who might play in central defense instead of his usual right-back position, as Tsunami has not performed well there. This move would free up the right-back spot for Saif. A source within Maccabi Haifa stated, "We need to lose as few points as possible until the best system and lineup are found, and then we will make minor changes." The source added, "There is a squad here that can show good ability, plus a right-winger who will arrive soon."