Maccabi Tel Aviv Achieves Rare 5-0 Start, But Coach Eyes Improvement

Maccabi Tel Aviv has secured a remarkable five consecutive wins to open the Israeli Premier League season, a feat not achieved in 33 years. The team heads into the three-week international break in high spirits, despite minor injuries to key players Elye Welle and Mo'ammad. Coach Keni Miler expressed optimism that both players will be fit for the match against Bnei Sakhnin following the break.

The historic start, accumulating 15 points from the first five games, demonstrates the team's potential, though it doesn't guarantee a championship. Notably, in the last instance of such a strong opening in the 1993/94 season, Maccabi Haifa ultimately won the league despite Maccabi Tel Aviv's 11-game winning streak.

However, the recent 2-1 victory over Maccabi Netanya highlighted areas for improvement, particularly in the second half. After a strong first half, where Dor Peretz scored from a penalty just before halftime, the team struggled to create chances and nearly conceded an equalizer. Peretz's penalty marked his 11th consecutive game with a goal, nearing an unprecedented record.

Coach Miler acknowledged the need for the team to "finish games" more effectively when they are performing well. He also addressed tactical decisions regarding substitutions, explaining his reasoning for bringing on Idan Shachar during the match. Players also recognized the need to capitalize on first-half dominance, with one stating, "We needed to finish the game in the first half and go into halftime with a two or three-goal lead."