Hapoel Haifa Coach Sticks With Winning Formula Despite Draw

Hapoel Haifa coach Haim Silman is maintaining his starting lineup for Monday's match against Bnei Sakhnin, opting for the same eleven players who drew with Maccabi Netanya in the previous round. This decision comes despite the team's recent results, which have included draws against Hapoel Tel Aviv and Hapoel Be'er Sheva, alongside the tie with Netanya. Silman has cautioned his players about Bnei Sakhnin's recent changes and potential lineup uncertainties, urging them to focus on their own performance, particularly addressing a tendency to slow down in the second half of games.

Forward Alon Turgeman is a key figure in discussions, having reportedly informed teammates of interest from Maccabi Tel Aviv. However, club owner Yoav Katz has reportedly vetoed any potential transfer. Turgeman, who has chosen not to actively pursue a move, is now hoping his loyalty and performance will earn him a contract extension for another season.

The projected starting lineup for Hapoel Haifa includes Yoav Gerafi in goal, a defense of Noam Cohen, Dario Zuparic, Ivan Kritzjak, and Ariel Mendy, a midfield of Chic Keita, Naor Sabag, and Shai Elias, and an attacking trio of Hayb Hibbaleh, Liran Rotman, and Alon Turgeman.