Hapoel Haifa Coach Confirms Alon Tourgeman Staying Through Season

Hapoel Haifa secured their first win of the season, defeating Bnei Sakhnin 3-1 in a match where all goals were scored in the first half. Coach Haim Silvas acknowledged the team's inconsistent performance between halves, noting that while they struggled to control possession at times, they effectively capitalized on scoring opportunities against a Sakhnin defense caught unprepared.

Silvas specifically addressed speculation surrounding midfielder Alon Tourgeman, who has been linked with a move to Maccabi Tel Aviv. "Absolutely not," Silvas stated, emphasizing Tourgeman's integral role in the team's strategy. "Tourgi is here and will remain here until the end of the year at least. I am very pleased with him and with what is happening with the team." He added that club owner Yoav Katz also confirmed Tourgeman's retention.

Goalscorer Yaad Gonen dedicated his first league goal to his childhood friend, Oral Shalom Alon, who was killed on October 7th while defending kibbutzim. Gonen expressed his gratitude for the support from coach Silvas and his teammates, highlighting the positive atmosphere within the locker room.

On the opposing side, Bnei Sakhnin coach Yossi Abukasis expressed deep disappointment with his team's defensive performance, particularly in the first half, calling it a "horror show" and one of the worst defensive displays of his coaching career. Despite acknowledging the team's recent player acquisitions, Abukasis stressed the need for improved focus and reduced individual errors to achieve better results, stating that the team deserved to lose.

Bnei Sakhnin player Iyad Abu Abid echoed the sentiment of disappointment but stressed the team's immediate opportunity to rectify their performance in the upcoming match.