Israeli Handball League Kicks Off With 13 Teams, New Additions

The Israeli "Winner" handball league is set to begin its new season on Friday, featuring 13 teams. Hapoel Arad and Maccabi Kiryat Motzkin have been promoted to the top division. The league's promotion and relegation system was frozen this season due to the "Protective Edge" operation.

The opening round's marquee matchup pits Hapoel Ashdod against Maccabi Tel Aviv at 2:00 PM, to be broadcast live on Sport 5+. The two teams recently met in the Winner Cup, with Maccabi Tel Aviv securing a 34-29 victory.

Other opening day fixtures include Hapoel Arad making its historic league debut against Hapoel Rishon LeZion, M.K. Beer Sheva facing M.K. Holon, Ironi Rehovot hosting newcomer Maccabi Kiryat Motzkin, and the reigning champion A.S. Ramat Hasharon beginning its title defense against Hapoel Kiryat Ono.

Maccabi Tel Aviv, recently eliminated from European competition, will aim to rebound in the domestic league. Hapoel Ashdod, having reacquired the Cohen brothers, Adir and Naor, seeks a strong home start. Hapoel Arad's debut against the decorated Hapoel Rishon LeZion marks a significant moment for the club. M.K. Beer Sheva, which narrowly avoided relegation last season, has undergone significant roster changes under new coach Peter Komnenic.

Ironi Rehovot will have an opportunity for redemption against Maccabi Kiryat Motzkin after a close loss in the Winner Cup. A.S. Ramat Hasharon, largely retaining its championship-winning squad, has added two key players. The match between Maccabi Rishon LeZion and Bnei Herzliya has been postponed to September 29th due to Maccabi Rishon LeZion's European commitments. A.K. Ness Ziona will have a bye in the first round.