Maccabi Haifa Coach Backs Staying Player, Celebrates Crucial Win

Maccabi Haifa secured a vital 2-1 victory over Hapoel Petah Tikva, with a late goal from new signing Bruninho sealing the win. Coach Barak Bakhar expressed satisfaction with the result, noting it was a necessary response after a previous loss. He highlighted Bruninho's impact, stating, "This is why we brought him in," and acknowledged the team's need for more creative players, mentioning the recent signing of Pedro Brazão to bolster the offense.

Bakhar also addressed the future of forward Guy Melamed, who has returned from injury. "If we want him to stay? Why not? Absolutely," Bakhar declared, emphasizing Melamed's importance to the squad. He further commented on the team's performance, acknowledging areas for improvement while expressing optimism about building a cohesive unit with many new players.

Goalkeeper Omri Glazer echoed the sentiment of relief after the win, stressing the importance of the three points for the club's aspirations. He spoke about managing the pressure inherent in playing for Maccabi Haifa and the team's strong dressing room dynamic. Glazer also touched on the fans' expectations, understanding their desire for better football.

On the opposing side, Hapoel Petah Tikva coach Omer Peretz lamented the loss, attributing it to individual moments and a missed penalty that could have changed the game's outcome. He discussed the team's current limitations in terms of wingers and the ongoing process of building the squad after significant player departures, including the sale of Chipiocha Songa.

Concerns were raised about a potential serious knee injury to Maccabi Haifa's Frank Ribery, who was substituted in the second half and will undergo an MRI. The team is awaiting the results to determine the extent of the injury and plan accordingly.