Maccabi Tel Aviv Dominates Hapoel Tel Aviv in Derby to Claim Super Cup

Maccabi Tel Aviv has sent a clear message at the start of the 2026/27 season, securing the first title by decisively defeating Hapoel Tel Aviv 101-83 in the Social Super Cup. The derby match, featuring two teams with high expectations, saw Maccabi dominate from the outset with fluid offensive basketball, high tempo, and significant confidence, preventing their city rivals from mounting a comeback.

Hapoel Tel Aviv, despite assembling a star-studded roster under coach Dimitris Itoudis, struggled to match Maccabi's intensity and offensive prowess. The team appeared to lack solutions for much of the game, falling short of the high hopes surrounding them. For Maccabi, this victory is more than just a preseason win; winning the derby against a major rival and clinching a title provides significant momentum.

The 18-point margin of victory highlighted the gap that emerged during the game, with Maccabi proving more prepared, efficient, and successful in imposing their style. Hapoel struggled to contain Maccabi's momentum. Maccabi fans have reason to be optimistic, as the manner of the victory against an ambitious rival offers an ideal start to the season.

Conversely, Hapoel Tel Aviv will need to analyze the reasons for their disappointing performance and make adjustments. While Itoudis's team was built to compete for all titles, Maccabi clearly dictated the pace and demonstrated superiority in this initial derby clash. Maccabi Tel Aviv begins the 2026/27 season with a prestigious derby win, their first title, and considerable confidence for upcoming challenges.