Hapoel Tel Aviv Faces Fallout After Derby Defeat, Squad Changes Loom

Hapoel Tel Aviv is reeling from a crushing 4-1 loss to rivals Maccabi Tel Aviv in the Tel Aviv derby. Club officials and coach Eliniv Barda acknowledged that tactical decisions, particularly substitutions made late in the game, led to defensive disarray and conceded two late goals, turning a loss into a rout. "Barda believed they could still get a point with ten players," sources within the club stated. "While it shows his faith in his players, you can't act like conceding four goals is the same as losing 2-1. It's the same three points, but the derby has a different impact on everyone's energy."

The club also expressed frustration with the refereeing, feeling calls favored Maccabi, especially regarding yellow cards. However, they did not absolve midfielder Staviel Turiel of responsibility for his red card. "It was irresponsible, even if driven by derby emotions. It was unnecessary and avoidable, but we lose together and win together. Staviel isn't solely responsible for losses or wins; responsibility for good and bad lies with everyone," a club representative emphasized.

This marks Hapoel Tel Aviv's first loss, first time conceding four goals, and first defeat of the season. Coach Barda stressed to his players that a strong locker room is tested during difficult times. The team now looks to rebound against Hapoel Petah Tikva on Friday, with the coaching staff noting that Hapoel was not inferior to Maccabi when playing eleven against eleven, a positive takeaway.

With the transfer window closing in two days, Hapoel Tel Aviv is not expected to sign new players. Instead, the focus will be on trimming the squad. Or Israelov may be loaned to Hapoel Petah Tikva. Meanwhile, Itay Shevit, who joined without playing time, is expected to stay until at least January, with club officials citing his talent and potential for future minutes.

Staviel Turiel will miss the next match due to suspension. Yanick Lielindell, who was registered but did not play in the derby, remains doubtful for Friday's game as he is not yet match-fit. Given the team already has eight foreign players and is only registering seven, his inclusion is contingent on specific needs like injuries or suspensions in his position. His debut is likely to be postponed until after the international break.