Beitar Jerusalem Secures Third Straight Win, Boosts Morale

Beitar Jerusalem achieved a significant victory, defeating Hapoel Haifa 2-1 on Saturday, marking their third consecutive win in the league. This streak has lifted the team's spirits heading into the international break, silencing earlier criticisms regarding the squad, tactics, and overall performance.

Despite a numerical advantage after an early red card for Hapoel Haifa's Yaad Gonen, Beitar Jerusalem could have secured a larger margin of victory. Goalkeeper Yoav Gerafi made several key saves, including stopping a penalty from Beitar's Yarden Shua in the second half. The match dynamics shifted again when Beitar's Bibras Natkho received a red card for a rash foul, leveling the playing field.

Key performers included Bibras Natkho, who despite not being the best on the field, contributed significantly. Roey Eliyahu delivered a strong performance, Tomer Yosefi provided another assist, and Omer Atzili led the team in the absence of Shua, who did not start. Shua, upon entering the game, showed flashes of brilliance but appeared to lack the form of the previous season. He later complained of a muscle injury and will be examined by a national team doctor, missing a post-game training session.

Coach Almog Cohen faces decisions regarding Shua's role and the team's foreign player slots. With Nana Owusu expected to be fit after the break and Yarden Cohen returning from injury, competition for places will intensify. Adi Yona and Ziv Ben Shimol were not utilized in the recent match.

Following the break, Beitar Jerusalem is scheduled to play Hapoel Ramat Gan and then Maccabi Tel Aviv. In a post-game encounter, Cohen met with Ariel Mendy, with whom he appeared to have reconciled.