Israeli Handball League Kicks Off with Wins for Top Teams

The 2026/27 Israeli handball league season commenced with the traditional Winner Cup tournament. Due to the league's expansion to 13 teams, the competition was divided into four groups. In Group A, Hapoel Rishon LeZion secured a decisive 32:26 victory over Maccabi Beer Sheva, positioning themselves for a potential semi-final berth. Maccabi Beer Sheva, who remained in the top league due to the "Lion's Roar" war, fought hard in the first half but ultimately succumbed to Rishon LeZion's stronger second-half performance. Rishon LeZion's Neria Ovade and Yonatan Pelach each scored seven goals.

In the same group, Maccabi Holon defeated Hapoel Arad 32:24. Arad, a newcomer to the top league, put up a fight in the first half, trailing by only one goal at halftime, but Holon dominated the second half to secure a convincing win. This sets up a crucial match between Hapoel Rishon LeZion and Maccabi Holon to determine who advances to the semi-finals.

AS Ramat HaSharon, the reigning league champion, began their campaign with a strong 39:29 win over Bnei Herzliya in Group B. Ramat HaSharon, bolstered by new signings, controlled the game from the start, establishing a lead they maintained throughout. In Group C, Maccabi Tel Aviv, with a new coach, started with a 34:29 victory against Hapoel Ashdod. The team showed strong offensive capabilities, securing a comfortable win in their opening match.

Maccabi Kiryat Motzkin, returning to the top league after a year's absence, celebrated their comeback with a dramatic 32:31 win over Ironi Rehovot in Group D. The game was closely contested, with Kiryat Motzkin securing the victory with a last-second goal from Ido Tal. This thrilling finish marked a successful return to the top flight for the team.