Israeli Women's Premier League Kicks Off Historic Season

The 2026/27 season of the Israeli Women's Premier League is set to begin on Thursday, featuring four simultaneous matches broadcast live. The league welcomes back the defending champions, Hapoel Katamon Jerusalem, who aim to build on their historic championship win last season. Despite an early exit from the Champions League qualifiers, Jerusalem has strengthened its squad with key international signings, including Costa Rican national team goalkeeper Daniela Solera and Brazilian forward Raíza. The team has maintained its core players while adding new talent, demonstrating a strong start to the season with a perfect record in early domestic cup games.

Maccabi Holon, who finished fourth last season, faces a challenging start with a limited foreign player roster due to budget cuts. However, they have bolstered their local talent with players like Ofel Super and Maor Or Lev. Holon's veteran coach Gabi Burshtein will lead the team as they aim to improve their standing in the league.

Kiryat Gat, the runner-up and former five-time champion, has undergone significant changes, including a new coach, Zohar Kaminsky, and the departure of several key players. Despite these shifts, they retain their star player, Brazilian forward Daniella Helana, who has consistently been the league's top scorer. Kiryat Gat has also added several promising international players, including Argentinian national team goalkeeper Abigail Chavez and Panamanian midfielder Aldrit Quintero, as they aim to compete for titles once again.

Hapoel Ra'anana, newly promoted, has also made substantial additions to its squad, including international players like Brazilian forward Natalia Costa Correa and Zambian defender Marta Tembo. They have also signed experienced Israeli players, including national team goalkeeper Forton Rubin and defender and national team captain Meital Sharabi, with ambitions to reach the upper playoff bracket.

The league will also feature a historic derby between Hapoel Tel Aviv and Maccabi Tel Aviv. Hapoel Tel Aviv returns to the top league after a dominant season in the second division, while Maccabi Tel Aviv, in its second year as a women's team, finished third last season and has added five foreign players to its roster. Both teams have made significant reinforcements and are looking to make their mark in the upcoming season.