Maccabi Haifa Prepares for Tiberias Clash with Key Lineup Decisions

Maccabi Haifa has finalized its preparations for Saturday's home match against Ironi Tiberias, aiming to build on their recent impressive victory over Ironi Kiryat Shmona. Coach Barak Bakhar is expected to make one change in the attack, with captain Tjaronn Chery likely returning to the starting lineup, replacing midfielder Yair Mardochai. Dean David will move to the attacking midfield role, and Chery will occupy the left wing position.

In defense, Bakhar is contemplating a change, considering the inclusion of Noam Steifman. However, he is also weighing keeping the same back four that started against Kiryat Shmona. If Steifman starts, either Lior Refaelov, who is not fully fit and is a doubt, or Kian Hansen could be replaced. Bakhar has also practiced scenarios where the defense remains unchanged. If Refaelov is unavailable, Pedrão is expected to take his place.

A Maccabi Haifa player stated, "Nobody underestimates Tiberias. We want to continue improving." The team is looking to secure a third consecutive league win, a feat they only achieved once last season. Ironi Tiberias, meanwhile, will be seeking to win two consecutive away games, a rare occurrence for them in recent seasons.

Historically, Maccabi Haifa has a strong record against Tiberias, with two home wins and two away draws. They have also won their last 14 matches against the previous Tiberias representative, Hapoel Tiberias, since a loss in June 1964. Ironi Tiberias coach Alon Ziv will be managing against Maccabi Haifa for the first time, having lost heavily to them as a player in the past.