Hapoel Tel Aviv Recovers with Dominant Win After Derby Defeat

Hapoel Tel Aviv secured a convincing 3-0 victory over Hapoel Petah Tikva on Friday, marking a return to winning ways after a significant 4-1 derby loss. The win, which opened the fifth round of the Israeli Premier League, saw goals from Emmanuel Boateng via a header in the 10th minute, a second goal from Chico in the 17th minute assisted by debutant Yanick Lellindal, and an own goal by former loanee Or Israelov in the 55th minute. Hapoel Tel Aviv's opponent, Hapoel Petah Tikva, had Karim Kimbedi sent off, contributing to their third consecutive loss.

Hapoel Tel Aviv coach Eliniiv Barda expressed satisfaction with the team's performance, acknowledging the difficult four days the club experienced following the derby defeat. "We went through four very shaking and difficult days after the derby," Barda stated, emphasizing the team's internal strength and the importance of the win for the players and fans. He added, "There are long way to go to compensate the fans. I am happy we won today after four sleepless nights."

Barda also commented on the team's play, noting a strong first half that effectively decided the match. He highlighted the depth of the squad, with 22-23 players capable of starting, and expressed the ambition to improve upon last season's performance. "We were crowned in the first-second round and after a loss they say we are not worthy. We are used to these things, we will have to deal with it all season," he remarked regarding external criticism.

On the opposing side, Hapoel Petah Tikva's Omer Peretz attributed the loss to a lethargic start and quick punishment by Hapoel Tel Aviv. He noted that substitutions disrupted the team but the red card ultimately sealed their fate. Despite the painful defeat, Peretz believes the game could be a catalyst for improvement, stating, "With all the pain, this game can lift us. We left here with our teeth gritted, players who came in showed that they can be relied upon. There is a good team here, we will come back from this break much stronger."