Hapoel Jerusalem Prepares for Maccabi Petah Tikva Clash Amidst Injury Concerns

Hapoel Jerusalem is gearing up to face Maccabi Petah Tikva in an upcoming match, aiming to secure a positive result before the international break and the High Holidays. The team is focused on improving their performance, particularly their ability to start games strongly, drawing inspiration from their second-half play and the impact of substitutes in recent games.

Key players like Nadim and Rasina are expected to feature in the starting lineup, with the club noting Rasina's significant improvement and ability to "drive defenses crazy." Idoku is also likely to start due to his consistent good form. However, Hapoel Jerusalem will be without Vitali Damashkan, who has a minor adductor muscle tear.

On a positive note, Sheran Yebero is returning to the squad after recovering from an injury and will depart for the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers with the Togo national team after the match. Hilaï Maman also returns to the squad for the first time since his performance in the Toto Cup. Jonathan Lish and Idan Cohen will be absent due to hamstring and foot injuries, respectively.

The team will also be preparing to honor former coach Ziv Arie, who now manages Maccabi Petah Tikva, with a ceremony at Teddy Stadium at a later date. Players Omer Abohav and Christ Tiehi expressed disappointment with the recent draw against Tiberias, emphasizing the need to improve defensive play and secure wins. Coach Lior Zada acknowledged the team's improved performance as games progressed but stressed the importance of preparing thoroughly for the challenging Maccabi Petah Tikva and accumulating points before the break.