Widow of Slain Footballer Lior Assoulin Criticizes Sports World for Lack of Memorial

Moran Assoulin, the ex-wife of former Israeli footballer Lior Assoulin, who was murdered at the Nova music festival on October 7th, has expressed disappointment with Israeli football clubs for failing to organize a proper memorial for him. Lior Assoulin, who played for clubs including Beitar Jerusalem, Hapoel Be'er Sheva, and Hapoel Petah Tikva, left behind three children. Moran Assoulin stated she approached major clubs, particularly Beitar Jerusalem, which he loved and where he had successful seasons, requesting a tribute, and expressed hope that something will still happen.

She recalled that hundreds attended a recent event marking Lior's birthday and praised his former coach Eyal Lachman for consistently remembering him. Another former coach, Eli Ohana, remembered Assoulin as a "fighter" and a "man you go to war with, always there for the team." Moran Assoulin recounted the fear she experienced on October 7th, searching for Lior after realizing he was in the south, and the difficult news of his death.

She described him as a warm father and spoke of their special bond, noting that she cherishes their memories and that life, though difficult without him, is ultimately stronger. Lior Assoulin was not originally supposed to be at the Nova festival that weekend, but last-minute changes led him there. Moran remembered his positive outlook, his "joy of life and eternal smile," and his exceptional love for Beitar Jerusalem and its fans. She also shared a humorous anecdote about him leaving Apollon Limassol to return to Israel for his brother's wedding while she was pregnant with their third child.