Hapoel Jerusalem Secures Victory, Welcomes New Sponsor

Hapoel Jerusalem achieved a significant 4-2 victory over Maccabi Petah Tikva on Saturday, extending their positive start to the season. The win was largely propelled by a remarkable hat-trick from striker Nadim Varasna, a product of the club's youth academy. The team expressed satisfaction with the momentum gained, especially after a disappointing draw in their previous match.

Despite facing several key absences, including Yonatan Lish, Idan Cohen, and Vitali Damaskan, the club highlighted the strong offensive performance and the dynamic contributions from midfielders Shani Zubayro, Omer Abuhav, and Krist Tihy. The team will now enjoy a two-day break before resuming training on Tuesday. Zubayro is also set to join the Togo national team for Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

The club celebrated the win with approximately 1,100 traveling fans who created an excellent atmosphere at the stadium. Players celebrated in the locker room, lifting Varasna, who made history as the first Hapoel Jerusalem player to score a hat-trick in the top league in 55 years, a feat last achieved by club legend Eli Ben Rimoz.

Coach Lior Zada had urged his players before the game to give their all for a victory. The club emphasized its philosophy of developing homegrown talent, citing Varasna and Idoko, another youth academy graduate, as prime examples of this strategy.

In parallel with the sporting achievements, Hapoel Jerusalem announced a new sponsorship deal with "Areca," a leading Israeli wholesaler and importer of electrical and lighting solutions, extending through the 2026-27 season. The Areca logo will be featured on the team's jerseys and stadium signage. This partnership aims to integrate with the club's social initiatives, reflecting shared values of community commitment and grassroots growth.

Areca CEO Michael Rabinovich stated the sponsorship stems from a commitment to Jerusalem and its businesses, finding a natural connection with a community club run with passion by its fans. Hapoel Jerusalem CEO Uri Sheretzky affirmed the club's dedication to community work in Jerusalem to justify Areca's choice.