Maccabi Haifa Fans Shun Jerusalem Match Amid Security Concerns

Only around 700 tickets have been sold to Maccabi Haifa fans for the upcoming match against Hapoel Jerusalem at Teddy Stadium on Monday evening. This low turnout follows Maccabi Haifa's decision not to purchase tickets due to alleged mistreatment by the Moriah police. The League Management issued a statement on Friday, urging Maccabi Haifa supporters to buy tickets and attend the game, emphasizing that efforts are being made with Israeli police and security to ensure a safe and respectful atmosphere. Dedicated sections will be provided for Maccabi Haifa fans. Hapoel Jerusalem CEO Uri Sheratzky called on the green fans to attend, stating that football belongs to the fans and he expects full stands. The ticket price is set at 70 shekels, including fees, with assurances of a welcoming experience.

However, the Maccabi Haifa fan organization, "The Northern Stand," has advised supporters not to attend the match. They expressed disappointment with the joint statement from Erez Kalfon and Hapoel Jerusalem, arguing that no real solution has been provided for the severe violence their fans have experienced at Teddy Stadium previously. The organization believes the joint appeal for attendance, made after only a few hundred tickets were sold, is an attempt to extract more money from fans, especially after a previous match where fans again faced violence from local police despite assurances of safety. The Northern Stand is urging fans who have already purchased tickets to cancel them.