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 its last three matches before the international break. The club believes a renewed energy has emerged after a somewhat slow start to the season, with coach Lior Zada's new system reportedly taking hold among the players. The coaching staff focused on improving defensive play during the break, a goal they intend to implement immediately against Maccabi Haifa. Following this match, Hapoel Jerusalem faces a challenging series against other top teams: Hapoel Be'er Sheva, Hapoel Tel Aviv, and Maccabi Netanya.

Several players are questionable for the game. Vitali Damashkan has completed rehabilitation in Spain and may be fit to play. Hillel Maiman is still not at 100% after returning from injury before the break. Idan Cohen is dealing with a leg inflammation, and Nedim Rasanah sustained an injury in a training match against Maccabi Tel Aviv, with his participation uncertain. Yonatan Lish will remain sidelined.

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

Coach Lior Zada has urged his players to slow down the game during difficult periods, noting the team has conceded two goals in each of its last three matches. "Maccabi Haifa is a very challenging team with very talented players up front, many options," Zada stated. "We prepared for them as best we could, while also improving our own elements. 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." He 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 adjustments and worked on it for the upcoming game. We know we must improve and reduce the number of goals we concede. I hope and believe we will do it." Player Lee-On Mizrahi expressed feeling great with the team and integrating quickly, emphasizing focus and sticking to their game plan. Elay Madmon recalled feeling at home in Rehovot due to fan support and expressed eagerness to return to Jerusalem, expecting a large crowd and a positive result.