Hapoel Be'er Sheva Secures Hard-Fought Draw Against Dinamo Zagreb in Europa League Opener

Hapoel Be'er Sheva began their Europa League league stage campaign with a goalless draw against Croatian powerhouse Dinamo Zagreb. The match, held in Bucharest, Romania, saw approximately 800 Israeli fans travel to support their team.

Under coach Ran Kochva, Be'er Sheva fielded a rotated squad, including forwards Zlatanovic and East, who had not started in their previous league match. The first half was characterized by cautious play, but Be'er Sheva gradually took control. Their most notable chance came in the 26th minute when new signing Amankwaa Forson struck the post with a powerful left-footed shot from outside the box. Despite continued pressure and several other opportunities, including a shot from Zahy Ahmed that was saved, the teams went into halftime scoreless.

In the second half, Be'er Sheva maintained their dominance, with Dinamo Zagreb's only significant threat coming from Mislav Oršić, which was saved by goalkeeper Ofir Marciano. Be'er Sheva created further chances, notably a header from Igor Zlatanovic in the 53rd minute that was brilliantly saved by Dinamo's goalkeeper, Kotarski, and a late opportunity for substitute Amir Ganah that was thwarted by the Zagreb defense.

Despite controlling the game and creating numerous scoring opportunities, Hapoel Be'er Sheva was unable to convert their advantage into goals. The match concluded with a 0-0 tie, earning Be'er Sheva their first point in the Europa League league stage. The team now shifts its focus to their upcoming league match against Ironi Kiryat Shmona before the long international break.