Beitar Jerusalem Coach Almog Cohen Addresses Player Rumors After Win

Beitar Jerusalem secured a crucial 2-1 home victory against Hapoel Haifa at Bloomfield Stadium on Saturday. Following the match, coach Almog Cohen expressed satisfaction with his team's performance, acknowledging they could have made the game easier but were pleased to secure the win and alleviate pressure. He praised his players as a "group of men" who responded to criticism after early season struggles with hard-fought victories.

Cohen addressed rumors surrounding player Yarden Shua, stating, "Shua is a very important player for Beitar and we will need him at his best. Everything is fine from my perspective." He emphasized that he knows what is happening with his players and doesn't pay attention to external speculation. Cohen also spoke about the pressure of coaching Beitar, acknowledging the "big shoes" he has to fill and hoping for a new path forward through hard work.

Player Tomer Yosefi echoed Cohen's sentiments, highlighting the team's aggression and determination. He noted the importance of the fans' support and expressed confidence in the team's improvement. Yosefi also mentioned working on aggressiveness over the past two years and reiterated that the team comes before individual players.

In contrast, Hapoel Haifa coach Haim Silvas lamented his team's difficult circumstances during the match. He described a strong start that was undone by an early goal conceded and a subsequent red card, which he felt put them in a "completely different hole." Silvas acknowledged his team's fight and resilience in trying to come back despite the setbacks, but ultimately, it wasn't enough to secure points.

Silvas also commented on specific player incidents, including dissatisfaction with a substitution and the impact of the red card on the game's dynamics. He mentioned that such events, stemming from over-motivation, are part of modern football. Hapoel Haifa player Alon Tourgeman also spoke about the team's fight and character, despite the loss, and looked towards the upcoming break to return stronger.