Hapoel Tel Aviv Faces Challenges After Derby Defeat to Maccabi

Hapoel Tel Aviv is grappling with disappointment and criticism following a crushing 4-1 loss to rivals Maccabi Tel Aviv in the Tel Aviv derby. Club officials and coach Eliyahu "Eli" Livni Bardah agreed that Bardah's game management, particularly late substitutions, created defensive disarray that led to two late goals, turning a loss into a rout. "Bardah believed they could still get a point with ten players," sources within the club stated. "While this 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 Stav Turi'el of responsibility for his red card. "It was irresponsible, even if driven by derby emotions. It was unnecessary and could have been avoided, but we lose together and win together. Stav isn't solely responsible for losses or wins; responsibility lies with everyone," Hapoel officials emphasized.

This marks Hapoel Tel Aviv's first loss, first time conceding multiple goals, and first defeat of the season. Coach Bardah stressed to his players that a strong locker room is tested during difficult times. The team looks to bounce back against Hapoel Petah Tikva on Friday, with the coaching staff noting that Hapoel was not inferior to Maccabi at 11-on-11 as a positive takeaway.

With the transfer window closing in two days, Hapoel Tel Aviv is not expected to sign new players and may instead focus on trimming the squad. Or Israelov might be loaned to Hapoel Petah Tikva. Midfielder Itay Shavit, who joined but hasn't played, is expected to stay until January.

Looking ahead, Turi'el will miss the next match due to suspension. New signing Yannick Lellien is still doubtful as he lacks full match fitness, and with the team already having eight foreign players registered, his inclusion is not a priority until he is fully ready or needed due to injuries or suspensions.