Maccabi Haifa Prepares for Tiberias Clash with Roster Decisions

Maccabi Haifa has finalized its preparations for Saturday's 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, potentially replacing midfielder Yair Mardochai. Dean David will move to an attacking midfield role, and Chery will play on the left wing. Bakhar is also contemplating a defensive change, considering the inclusion of Noam Steifman. If Steifman starts, either Ronaldo Van La Parra, who is not fully fit and is doubtful, or Kian Safi could be benched. However, the coach has also practiced with the same defensive quartet that played against Kiryat Shmona. If Van La Parra is unavailable, Pedro Henrique is expected to take his place. A Haifa player stated, "Nobody underestimates Tiberias. We want to continue improving."

Ironi Tiberias aims to surprise Maccabi Haifa at Sammy Ofer Stadium. A Tiberias player commented, "Maccabi Haifa won 4-0 against Kiryat Shmona in a game where they didn't play well. Things depend on them, but we believe in ourselves on any pitch." Daniel Golani has returned to training and will be in the squad. David Keltjins, Niv Gottlieb, and possibly Sambinha, if he signs a plea deal, will be available after the international break. The team is still looking to strengthen with a free agent, exploring options for a foreign defensive midfielder.

Historically, Maccabi Haifa has a strong record against Tiberias, with two home wins and two away draws in the Premier League. They have also won their last 14 games against the previous Tiberias representative, Hapoel Tiberias, since a loss in June 1964. Maccabi Haifa seeks a third consecutive league win, a feat they only achieved once last season. Ironi Tiberias will attempt to secure two consecutive away wins, having only won twice away in the entire last regular season. Alon Ziv will manage against Maccabi Haifa for the first time; as a player, he lost to them twice, including a 7-0 defeat in the 2002/03 cup quarter-finals.