Maccabi Tel Aviv Stays Perfect in Derby Win After Hapoel Tel Aviv Red Card

Maccabi Tel Aviv maintained their perfect start to the season with a decisive 4-1 victory over rivals Hapoel Tel Aviv in the derby. The game shifted significantly when Hapoel's Stav Touriyal was sent off with a second yellow card in first-half stoppage time, leaving his team to play with ten men.

Despite the disadvantage, Hapoel Tel Aviv coach Ronny Barada acknowledged the impact of the red card, stating it had a "critical and direct influence" on the game. He noted that his team had started well and responded positively even after conceding early goals, but the sending off and a quick second goal for Maccabi changed the dynamic entirely. Barada added that his team gambled on offense after falling behind 2-1, aiming for an equalizer, but ultimately conceded again.

For Maccabi Tel Aviv, substitute Elad Madmon was a standout performer, scoring a goal and providing an assist in added time. Other notable scorers included Ohad Davida and Hisyam Layous, both playing against their former club. Dor Peretz continued his impressive scoring streak with his seventh goal in four games.

Maccabi Tel Aviv now leads the league with 12 points after four rounds, followed by Maccabi Haifa with nine points, while Hapoel Tel Aviv remains on seven points. Ohad Davida expressed his joy at the win, downplaying any perceived taunting with his goal celebration, stating he performs it regularly and would do the same if he scored against his current team.