Beitar Jerusalem Secures Third Straight Win Ahead of Break

Beitar Jerusalem achieved their third consecutive league victory on Saturday, defeating Hapoel Haifa 2-1. This win provides a positive send-off for the team as they head into the international break, silencing early-season criticism regarding their squad, tactics, and performance. Despite a numerical advantage after an early red card for Hapoel Haifa's Yaad Gonen, Beitar Jerusalem failed to capitalize fully, with Hapoel Haifa's goalkeeper Yoav Jerafi making crucial saves, including stopping a penalty from Beitar's Yarden Shua.

The match became more balanced after Beitar Jerusalem was also reduced to ten players due to a foul by Bryon Carbally. Nevertheless, the team, managed by Almog Cohen, departs for the break with renewed confidence. Key performers included Roey Eliyahu and Tomer Yosefi, who provided another assist, while Omer Atzili led the team to victory in the absence of Shua, who did not start.

Following the game, Yarden Shua reported muscle pain and will be examined by a national team doctor. Shua, who entered the game as a substitute, showed flashes of brilliance but is not yet at his previous season's form. Coach Almog Cohen faces a decision regarding Shua's role and fitness.

Looking ahead, Beitar Jerusalem will face Hapoel Ramat Gan and Maccabi Tel Aviv after the break. Nana Owusu is expected to be fit by then, intensifying the competition for foreign player spots. Additionally, Adi Yona and Ziv Ben Shimol were not fielded, and Yarden Cohen is set to return after the break, further increasing competition within the squad.