Maccabi Tel Aviv Dominates, Hapoel Be'er Sheva Shows Cracks

Maccabi Tel Aviv delivered a commanding performance, crushing reigning champions Hapoel Be'er Sheva 4-1 in a league match. The victory highlighted Maccabi Tel Aviv's superior form and cohesion compared to Be'er Sheva, which has struggled in recent games, including a draw at home against Hapoel Haifa and the heavy loss to Maccabi.

Be'er Sheva's coach, Ran Kozuch, acknowledged the team's subpar performance, stating it was not the Be'er Sheva he knows. The article notes a general decline in the individual performance of Be'er Sheva's players compared to last season, exacerbated by the departure of key player Kanga and an injury to striker Igor Zlatanovic. The defense, midfield, and attack all appeared weaker, allowing Maccabi Tel Aviv to control the game from the outset.

The defeat marks Be'er Sheva's third consecutive loss to Maccabi Tel Aviv across different competitions, with a combined goal difference of 3-9. The team's start to the season has been described as "limping," with a last-minute win against Hapoel Ramat Gan and a draw against Hapoel Haifa. Be'er Sheva's home ground, once a "fortress," seemed vulnerable, with Maccabi players easily penetrating their defense.

Key moments in the match included an early goal by Maccabi's Ester Sukler within the first minute and an injury to Be'er Sheva's Lucas Ventura shortly after. Be'er Sheva's struggles were compounded by the nervous play and subsequent red card of Eliel Peretz. With Ventura injured and Peretz sent off, Be'er Sheva was without three key midfielders from the previous season, effectively ending their chances despite a late consolation goal.

Maccabi Tel Aviv's performance was lauded as one of their best in recent years, with every player contributing effectively. New signing James Tavernier showed immediate confidence and integration, while midfielder Gabi Kanikovsky was highlighted as the league's best reinforcement. Coach Kenny Miller was praised for fostering a cohesive and motivated team atmosphere.

The article concludes by noting that while four teams are contenders for the championship, Be'er Sheva and Beitar Jerusalem have had slow starts. In contrast, both Tel Aviv clubs, Maccabi and Hapoel, are performing strongly and are set to face each other in a highly anticipated derby.