Maccabi Haifa Faces Ironi Tiberias Amidst Squad Changes

Maccabi Haifa is set to host Ironi Tiberias on Saturday, aiming to secure 12 out of a possible 15 points before the international break. The team is not underestimating their opponent, particularly noting their physicality and striker Kais Ghanem, who proved challenging in a previous Toto Cup match.

Coach Barak Bachar is expected to make several lineup adjustments. Kanga Goure will return to the left wing after two games on the bench, allowing Bruninho to play in his natural attacking midfield role. Pedro Brazão is slated to make his debut at home after a strong performance in his initial appearance for the club. Andrea Novakovic will complete the attack, following a less impressive showing in the previous match.

Guy Melamed and Pedro will rejoin the squad. Pedro participated in recent training sessions, and his inclusion was confirmed after the final practice. However, Silva Kani is sidelined due to knee pain. Noam Shtayfman is expected to start at center-back in place of Tsunami, who is out with a groin issue. Kenny Saïf will play at left-back.

Maccabi Haifa expressed their focus on improvement and team cohesion, aiming to replicate the energy from the second half of their last game. They acknowledged Tiberias as a strong, aggressive team requiring alertness. The club also addressed fan protests, urging supporters to concentrate on cheering, while the "Green Monkeys" fan group stated they would support the team if their requested cheering equipment is permitted.

In other club news, Maccabi Haifa observed the debut of Dickson Muhammad for Hapoel Afula, where he scored his first goal in front of his brother, Ali Muhammad. Dickson Muhammad is a potential future player for Maccabi Haifa.