Beitar Jerusalem Coach Almog Cohen Vows Championship Amidst Pressure

Beitar Jerusalem coach Almog Cohen revealed he received a supportive message from club owner Barak Abramov at 2 a.m. following two initial losses, dispelling rumors about his job security. The team secured its first win of the season, a 0-1 victory against Sakhnin, also managing to keep a clean sheet after conceding seven goals in their previous two matches. Despite the crucial win, the team acknowledged the performance was weak, with the three points attributed largely to luck.

Cohen took responsibility for the limited minutes of captain Yarden Shua, who entered the game in the 87th minute, stating he pushed the player too hard during his recovery. He also addressed Omer Atzili's frustration, urging him to focus on the game rather than the referees, and expressed confidence that Atzili and Shua would soon find their form, which would improve Beitar's season. Sean Weissman, who started the match, also had a subpar performance.

Looking ahead, Nana Antwi and Luka Gadriani are expected to return to the starting lineup for the upcoming match against Maccabi Petah Tikva. The club praised the performances of defenders Roi Eliyamelech and Timothy Muzie, as well as Liel Darai. Beitar is reportedly interested in re-acquiring Yarin Levy from Maccabi Haifa, but Haifa has stated he will remain with them until the end of the season. The club is also seeking to sign a foreign defensive midfielder and potentially another Israeli player before the transfer window closes next Wednesday.

Cohen reflected on the immense pressure the team faced, stating, "It's hard to play quality football when there's such pressure. I felt it, and as a coach, I needed to know how to take it off the players. We need to come to enjoy ourselves and not to a world war." He reiterated his ambition for Beitar to win the championship this season, noting flashes of potential seen after their European campaign.