Tiberias City Optimistic Ahead of Maccabi Haifa Clash

Ironi Tiberias, a team widely predicted for relegation, is heading into their Saturday match against Maccabi Haifa with optimism following a strong start to the season. The team hopes to continue their positive momentum against a formidable opponent at Sammy Ofer Stadium.

Key lineup changes are expected for Tiberias. Daniel Golani, on loan from Maccabi Haifa, will return to the starting eleven, replacing Ari Cohen. Guy Sankar, who played as a left winger in the previous game, will move back to his natural right-wing position, with Mansour Badji shifting to midfield. Bar Cohen, returning from suspension, will also rejoin the squad, and striker Arthur Marinian, who debuted against Hapoel Jerusalem, is likely to get playing time.

Coach Alon Ziv acknowledged the challenge, stating, "We are coming off a good start to the season, but we understand that Maccabi Haifa at Sammy Ofer is a different challenge." He emphasized the need for focus, discipline, and precision against a high-tempo opponent but stressed that the team aims to play their own game and create chances, believing they can achieve a good result if they execute their game plan. Defender Ziv Morgan added that the team needs to raise its level and be tactically disciplined, as any mistake against Maccabi Haifa can be costly. However, he affirmed Tiberias's intention to play for a win, bringing "heart, motivation, and belief" to secure three points.

A projected starting lineup includes Ido Sharon in goal, a defense of Guy Sankar, Ron Unger, Ondrej Baco, and Ziv Morgan, a midfield of Daniel Golani and Chris Kaukou, and an attacking trio of Eden Shamir, Mansour Badji, and Nana Ampomah, with Kais Gnanam also potentially featuring.