Maccabi Tel Aviv Content With Hard-Fought Win, Eyes Player Health

Maccabi Tel Aviv secured a difficult 2-1 victory over Maccabi Netanya on Saturday, maintaining their perfect record in the Israeli Premier League as the international break begins. Club officials expressed satisfaction with the team's character and ability to secure a win, even if the performance was not always aesthetically pleasing. "There will be games like this, and the smart thing was to show character and win, which we did," a club spokesperson stated. The team is currently assessing the fitness of players Hilel Harel and Jaba Kankava, with Harel feeling discomfort in his groin and Kankava experiencing what is hoped to be minor hamstring strain. Both will undergo further medical evaluation. The club acknowledged that not participating in European competitions this season provides a competitive advantage in the domestic league, though they emphasized their desire to have competed in Europe. Players Kankava and Eyal Peretz received particular praise for their contributions, with Kankava's return being described as "crazy" for Maccabi.

The club is optimistic about the conditions of Hilel and Arale, and Muhammad Kamara, who will be examined. The defender already felt the groin area yesterday and will be checked, while with the winger, they hope it is only fatigue or a slight pull in the hamstring. Kankava and Peretz received the most praise. "Kankava is like a glove on a hand. It was so important that he returned. His contribution to Maccabi is crazy." The club is aware that the fact that the team is not playing in Europe gives it a certain advantage in the league: "Not that we didn't want Europe, but it definitely helps us in the league."