Maccabi Tel Aviv Faces Super Cup Derby With Key Players Questionable

Maccabi Tel Aviv is preparing to face Hapoel Tel Aviv in the first derby of the season for the Social Super Cup, aiming to start the year with a title after losing last year's final. The team's home arena is expected to be full with 4,000 Maccabi fans.

Maccabi enters the game after a training camp and four preparatory matches, including two in Israel against Bnei Herzliya and Maccabi Rishon LeZion, and a tournament in Cyprus against Aris Thessaloniki and Olympiacos. The team secured a win against Aris but lost to Olympiacos in their final warm-up game.

The club recognizes the importance of the derby, not only as the first title of the season but also due to the rivalry with Hapoel Tel Aviv. However, Maccabi is prioritizing player health, especially with the EuroLeague season starting in a week. Key players Jimmy Clark (hamstring injury) and Daniel Theis (ankle sensitivity) are doubtful for the game. Forward Ozey Brissett, who sustained a minor knee injury against Aris, is also questionable. Final decisions on Theis and Brissett will be made shortly before tip-off, but all three are unlikely to play.

The team is focused on ensuring players are fully fit for the EuroLeague, recalling issues from the previous European season. Goran Biak (knee injury) is still in rehabilitation and his return date is uncertain. TJ Leaf, returning from shoulder surgery, will play with a minutes restriction. Yam Madar, who had a knee injury in the game against Olympiacos, will make his official debut for Maccabi after a tumultuous summer regarding his signing.

Coach Oded Katash also faces a decision regarding new naturalized players Will Rayman and Shane Hunter, as only one can be registered for the game, a choice that will be repeated throughout the league season.