Maccabi Haifa Amputee Soccer Team Departs for Inaugural EAFF Conference League Tournament

The Maccabi Haifa amputee soccer team has traveled to Romania to compete in the first-ever EAFF Conference League tournament, hosted by Steaua Bucharest at their facilities. The team comprises players who are amputees due to military service injuries, survivors of the Nova music festival attack, and victims of road accidents. Among them is Ben Benjamin, a former player in lower leagues.

Maccabi Haifa is scheduled to begin the tournament on Thursday at 11:00 AM local time against Panathinaikos of Greece. Later that day, at 4:00 PM, they will face the host team, Steaua Bucharest. On Friday, Maccabi Haifa will play against Scotland's Celtic.

Team captain Tzach Shaharur expressed his pride in participating in the inaugural tournament, calling it a significant milestone for amputee soccer in Europe and for the club. He stated, "We arrive with aspirations, respect for our opponents, and pride in representing our club and our country."

Head coach Sharon Paz highlighted the tournament's importance beyond competition, emphasizing player development, experience gathering, and making history. He noted that competing against teams from Romania, Scotland, and Greece demonstrates the growth of amputee soccer and expressed pride in being part of this journey.