Hapoel Tel Aviv Ready for Derby, Coach Calls for Extra Effort

Hapoel Tel Aviv is finalizing preparations for their upcoming derby match against Maccabi Tel Aviv on Monday. The team held a press conference on Friday, the eve of Rosh Hashanah, where coach Eliniv Barda and forward Omri Altman spoke about their readiness.

Coach Barda emphasized focusing on the present and the team's strong start to the season, stating, "What happened in the past is history. We will take our good start to the season with us. We won't focus on the less good period, we will come to the game as it is, try to continue what we've done since the start of the season, and in the derby, we will need to bring our extras. We will come with confidence and we will come humbly."

Regarding potential player acquisitions, Barda mentioned the club is "constantly alert to what is happening in the market, and if we think something can help and improve, we will do it." He acknowledged Maccabi Tel Aviv's perfect start to the season but reiterated his focus on his own players and areas for improvement.

Forward Omri Altman downplayed the significance of past derby results, including a notable win last season. "We won't deal with that derby or any other derby. I don't think dwelling on the past will help us," he said. Altman highlighted the team's clear development in style, DNA, and mentality, which provides confidence for the upcoming match and beyond.

Altman also praised teammate Douglas Owusu, describing him as a "wonderful, positive, funny kid" who has integrated well with the team. He noted Owusu's maturity and impressive qualities that benefit Hapoel Tel Aviv.