Maccabi Haifa Secures Crucial Win Amidst Transfer Speculation

Maccabi Haifa secured a vital 2-1 victory over Hapoel Petah Tikva on Saturday at Sammy Ofer Stadium, easing pressure following a recent loss to Maccabi Tel Aviv. The win, sealed by a late goal from Bruninho, marked their second victory in three games, with a club source stating the team is "on the right track" and emphasizing the need for continued success.

Despite closing their foreign player quota with eight signings, the club is exploring the possibility of acquiring additional Israeli players to strengthen the squad, particularly in defensive positions, before the transfer window closes in less than two weeks. Coach Barak Bakhar made three changes to the starting lineup, benching Yarin Levi and Kangi Gura entirely, and substituting Silva Kani late in the game. Ali Mohamed and Cedric Don started in midfield, while striker Andrej Novakovic scored his first league goal in Israel. Novakovic was substituted after scoring because he is not yet fit for a full 90 minutes, with his participation planned for approximately 60 minutes.

Bruninho received praise for his decisive goal and assist, as did substitute Iyad Hallaili, who replaced the injured Yelle Betay early in the match and delivered a strong performance. The team also welcomed new Portuguese winger Pedro Brazão, who signed a three-year contract and is expected to enhance the team's attack with his dribbling, speed, and quality. Coach Bakhar noted that Brazão's integration into the team will be assessed.

Meanwhile, French defender Pierre Cornud, recovering from a torn ACL and meniscus injury, has returned to Israel to continue his rehabilitation. The club hopes for his gradual return to full training in the coming months if his recovery progresses as planned.