Hapoel Be'er Sheva's Resilience Tested Amidst Recent Setbacks

Despite recent disappointing results, including a significant loss to Maccabi Tel Aviv and a near-miss in Champions League qualification, Hapoel Be'er Sheva is demonstrating its characteristic resilience, according to an opinion piece.

The team's season began with a "humiliating loss" to Maccabi Tel Aviv in the Champions of Champions Cup, followed by the departure of player Kings Kangwa, which initially suggested a decline in form. However, the team soon found its footing, coming close to qualifying for the Champions League and displaying impressive football.

A dramatic elimination from Champions League qualification, decided in the final 18 seconds, was followed by a last-minute win against Hapoel Ramat Gan. Yet, subsequent draws and another heavy home defeat to Maccabi Tel Aviv have reignited doubts about the team's consistency.

The author argues that those quick to dismiss the team underestimate the qualities of coach Ran Kozuch, the patience of owner Alona Barkat, and the club's overall strength. Drawing parallels to a previous championship season marred by player failures and a doping scandal, the piece suggests that Hapoel Be'er Sheva has a history of overcoming adversity.

While acknowledging the current "bad" situation and the "disintegration" seen in the recent loss to Maccabi Tel Aviv, compounded by injuries to Lucas Ventura and Liran Rotman, the author remains convinced that the team can still compete effectively, even with European commitments. The key, it is suggested, lies in coach Kozuch's ability to adapt, particularly in finding a strategy to counter Maccabi Tel Aviv's coach, Kenny Miller, whom Be'er Sheva has struggled against.

The piece concludes by reiterating the team's motto: "If it's not difficult, it's not Hapoel Be'er Sheva," implying that challenges are inherent to the club's identity.