Maccabi Haifa Seeks Stability by Relying on Veteran Midfielder Ali Mohamed
Maccabi Haifa is facing mounting pressure following a 3-1 loss to Maccabi Tel Aviv, exacerbating concerns about the team's construction and foreign player acquisitions. The club, which finished fifth last season, has had a poor start, failing to secure European competition and not being considered title contenders this year. Despite a summer break intended for better preparation under professional director Lior Rafaelov and coach Barak Bachar, the team's performance has been disappointing.
Maccabi Haifa has played seven official matches this season, with a mixed record of two wins and three losses in the Toto Cup, and one win and one loss in the league. The team is set to host Hapoel Petah Tikva in a crucial match aimed at alleviating pressure and preventing a snowball effect of negative results. Internal criticism following the loss to Maccabi Tel Aviv focused on tactical decisions and the starting lineup, with particular surprise at midfielder Mohamed's exclusion and Yarin Levy's inclusion.
Ali Mohamed, a 31-year-old Israeli midfielder in his sixth season with the club, made an impact upon entering the game against Maccabi Tel Aviv in the second half, significantly improving the team's midfield play. His aggressive ball-winning and effective passing helped Haifa control large portions of the second half, though the team still conceded a third goal. Mohamed, a key player with two league titles and a notable Champions League appearance, is considered one of the team's most consistent performers.
Mohamed's younger brother, 18-year-old Dickson Mohamed, is also set to sign a senior contract with the club. Despite the club's struggles to find effective foreign defensive midfielders, Mohamed remains a stable and valuable asset for coach Bachar. While some believe he struggles with heavy workloads, the current season, focused solely on the league without European commitments, may allow him to regain his top form.
Coach Barak Bachar is expected to make several changes to the lineup for the upcoming match against Hapoel Petah Tikva, with Mohamed confirmed to start. Other potential changes include Andrea Novakovic, Iyad Halaileh, and Cedric Don. A victory is essential for Maccabi Haifa to reduce pressure and regain momentum, while another loss or even a draw could reignite speculation about the futures of Rafaelov and Bachar.
