Kiryat Shmona’s Martins Shines at the World Cup as Club Sets €1.5 Million Price Tag

Christian Martins, the Hapoel Kiryat Shmona midfielder, was named man of the match despite Panama’s 1-0 loss to Croatia at the World Cup, a result that eliminated Panama from the tournament. The performance drew major excitement in northern Israel and could strengthen interest from other clubs, while Kiryat Shmona said it would not sell him for less than €1.5 million.

Club officials and players reportedly watched the game closely and were thrilled by the display. “A huge source of pride, we woke up to a very exciting morning. It is amazing that a player from Kiryat Shmona represents us so impressively on the biggest stage,” the club said.

Martins played 90 minutes for Panama for the first time since 2018. Used on the wing, he completed 24 of 34 passes, drew three fouls, won five of eight duels against Croatia’s physical midfield, made two clearances and four interceptions.

After Panama’s final group game against England next week, Kiryat Shmona will give Martins rest. He is scheduled to join the team’s training camp in Poland on July 12. The match against England will be a dead rubber for Panama, while England still need a win to secure first place in the group; their previous World Cup meeting in 2018 ended 6-1 to England.