Israel's Top Penalty-Drawing Footballers Ranked

A new ranking of Israeli Premier League players based on penalties drawn since the 2023/24 season highlights Yarden Shua of Hapoel Jerusalem as the current leader with six, three of which were in the current season. Dor Peretz of Maccabi Tel Aviv and Omer Atzili of Hapoel Jerusalem follow with five penalties drawn each. Roy Rabivo, who has since moved to Elche, topped the list with seven penalties drawn prior to his departure, and is noted for drawing as many penalties as he scored goals during his time in the league.

The analysis suggests that the league's best and most dangerous players tend to draw the most fouls and penalties in the box, as they pose a greater threat to defenses. This often leads to increased physicality and more penalty opportunities. The article also points out an interesting trend where players known for their ability to change direction and create danger, rather than classic strikers, are effective at drawing fouls. This might be because defenses perceive them as a greater threat or are less equipped to handle them when they are not marked by a physically imposing center-back.

Fernand Mayembo of Hapoel Tel Aviv is highlighted for his effectiveness, drawing three penalties, all last season, representing a high percentage of the fouls he drew. Despite not being exceptionally tall for a defender, his strength is cited as a key factor in his ability to draw penalties, particularly during set pieces. The article questions whether teams, especially smaller ones, could strategically exploit this by isolating strong defenders against weaker matchups during corners to force penalties.

Other players mentioned include Matheus Dabo (Netanya), Ali Musa (Kiryat Shmona), and Osher Davida (Maccabi Tel Aviv), each with three penalties drawn. Musa, who now plays in the Maltese league, had an impressive record of drawing penalties relative to fouls in his time in Israel. Andrea Novakovic is also noted for his physicality and ability to draw defenders, making him a candidate for drawing penalties.