Keltins and Gottlieb to Start for Hapoel Ironi Tiberias After Suspension

Hapoel Ironi Tiberias is preparing to host league champions Hapoel Be'er Sheva on Saturday, a match that will mark the return of players David Keltins and Niv Gottlieb to the field. The duo had been suspended for three months as part of a broader scandal involving "anonymizers" in Israeli sports. Both Keltins and Gottlieb are expected to be in Tiberias' starting lineup for the first time since their suspension, with club sources noting their significance and eagerness to return. "Everyone at the club knows how important Niv and David are to Tiberias. It was clear they would return hungry and get straight into things," a club representative stated.

In contrast, player Sambinha, who also completed a three-month ban, has not yet passed budget control checks and his debut will be delayed until at least the next round. Additionally, Tiberias will be without two key players, Chris Kweku and Kais Ghanem, due to injury. Arthur Mirinian, who recently represented Armenia, is anticipated to make his starting debut for the team.

Tiberias acknowledges the unpredictable nature of matches against Be'er Sheva. Last season, the teams had contrasting results: Be'er Sheva dominated Tiberias 7-0 in one encounter, while Tiberias secured a surprising 3-0 home victory in their second meeting. This upcoming match will also be held at Bar'el Stadium, with approximately 1,000 away fans expected.