Hapoel Jerusalem Eyes Momentum Ahead of Maccabi Haifa Clash

Hapoel Jerusalem is aiming to maintain its recent momentum when it faces Maccabi Haifa, having secured 7 points out of a possible 9 in their last three matches. The team feels a renewed energy and spark after a somewhat slow start to the season, with coach Lior Zada's new system reportedly taking hold. The coaching staff focused on improving the defense during the international break, a key area they aim to implement against Maccabi Haifa and in upcoming games against Hapoel Be'er Sheva, Hapoel Tel Aviv, and Maccabi Netanya.

Several players are uncertain for the match. Vitali Damashkan has completed rehabilitation in Spain and may be fit, while Hillel Maiman is still recovering from a previous injury. Idan Cohen is dealing with a leg inflammation, and Nedim Rasanah sustained an injury in a training match against Maccabi Tel Aviv. Yonatan Lish will be absent.

The club is pleased to return to Teddy Stadium, with the light rail's L3 line now operating to and from the venue. A brief ceremony will be held before the game to commemorate the victims of the October 7th attacks from both teams' fan bases.

Coach Lior Zada emphasized the need to slow down the game during difficult periods, noting the team has conceded two goals in each of their last three matches. "Maccabi Haifa is a very challenging team with very talented players in the front, many options," Zada stated. "We prepared for them as best we could, while also improving elements within our own game. It will be decided a lot by individual ability. Hapoel Jerusalem is also a good team, and we will do everything to make our fans happy."

Regarding the return to Teddy Stadium, Zada added, "It was great in Rehovot, but there's nothing like returning to Jerusalem. Teddy is our home and our pitch, and we are waiting for our fans. All players need to be better in defense, more focused, tighter. We tried some things and certain adjustments and worked on it for the upcoming game. We know we must improve and reduce our goals conceded. I hope and believe we will do it. We have a lot to work on and improve, we are heading into 5 games. We are at the beginning of the season and after a break, we understand what we are heading into, and I believe we are capable of taking points on any pitch."

Player Lee-On Mizrahi expressed feeling "great in the team" and "integrated very quickly," adding that the key against Haifa will be to "come focused. Stick to our way. We used the last few weeks to work on what still needs improvement and arrive in peak readiness."

Elay Madmon recalled feeling "at home" at the Rehovot stadium due to the fans' support and stated, "Now we are all thirsty to return to Jerusalem, both the players and the fans. I am sure a lot of fans will come tomorrow to Teddy, and I believe we will make them happy too. After several years where we couldn't produce a good start."