Hapoel Beer Sheva Regrets Missed Chances in Europa League Draw

Hapoel Beer Sheva expressed disappointment following their 0-0 draw against Dinamo Zagreb in their opening Europa League group stage match on Wednesday. Despite dominating possession and creating more scoring opportunities than their Croatian counterparts, the Israeli champions were unable to secure a victory. Dinamo Zagreb failed to register a single shot on target against Beer Sheva's goalkeeper, Ofir Marciano.

Coach Ran Kozuch lamented the missed opportunity, stating, "There is a feeling of a missed opportunity. I think we played an excellent game and we should have made better decisions in the final third." He specifically pointed to decision-making within the penalty area, noting that his players were capable of scoring from the chances they created. Kozuch also cited the pitch condition as a minor hindrance, with players complaining about it, in addition to tactical adjustments needed after pushing Dinamo back.

Despite the draw, Kozuch highlighted the positives, emphasizing the confidence gained from the performance. He recalled the significant dominance displayed by an Israeli team in the Europa League, especially against a club of Dinamo Zagreb's stature. "We need to take the belief in ourselves," he added, noting that the players saw firsthand their ability to be dominant against such an opponent.

Hapoel Beer Sheva played without key midfielders Eliel Peretz, who is suspended, and Lucas Ventura, who is injured. Zahy Ahmed and new signing Forson Amankwah performed well in their stead, but Niv Yehoshua, playing in a defensive midfield role, particularly stood out. Kozuch, who previously coached Yehoshua, expressed confidence in his ability to perform the role effectively.

The team will host Ironi Kiryat Shmona on Saturday before a league break, during which some players will join their national teams. Peretz is expected to return after his suspension, while Ventura is hoped to be fit for the October 10th match against Ironi Tiberias. Beer Sheva's next Europa League fixture is away against AZ Alkmaar five days later.