Raanana Women's Soccer Club Aims for Top Tier Playoffs After Successful Return

Following a successful return season to the Israeli Women's Premier League, the Raanana women's soccer club is gearing up for the 2026/27 season with strengthened ambitions, targeting a spot in the upper playoff bracket. After securing first place in the lower playoff bracket in their comeback season, the team, coached by Idan Chamo, has reinforced its squad with both international and domestic talent. Key additions include Ghanaian forward Alshadai Ashampong and Nigerian defender Joseph Oguma, who are returning for a second season. The club has also signed Natalia Costa Correa, "Natchi," from Maccabi ASA Tel Aviv, who scored 14 goals last season, and Brazilian defender Fabiana Soares from Palmeiras. Midfield will be bolstered by experienced Brazilian midfielder Leidiana da Silva, formerly of Fluminense, and Marta Tembo, a Zambian national team defender with World Cup and Olympic experience, joins the backline. Domestically, Raanana has acquired Israeli national team goalkeeper Fortun Robin and experienced defender and national team captain Shani David from Maccabi K.A. Hadera. Hadass Morain from league champions Hapoel Katamon Jerusalem will strengthen the midfield. Coach Chamo expressed confidence in the team's potential, stating, "We have built a quality and strong team here, which can go into every game knowing it has the ability to win, regardless of the opponent or the field." He emphasized that while it's too early to discuss league standings, the team's performance on the field will determine their success. The club also highlighted its commitment to developing young talent from its own youth academy, aiming to provide a clear professional pathway for them to the senior team. The focus remains on building a competitive and stable team capable of challenging any opponent and advancing further in the State Cup.