Israeli Coach Yitzhaki Makes Dream Debut With Anorthosis Victory

Israeli coach Yitzhaki has made a significant impact in his first game with Cypriot club Anorthosis, leading them to a crucial 2-0 victory against Omonia Aradippou in a bottom-of-the-table clash. The win is seen as a promising start to a new era for the former Beitar Jerusalem coach.

Cypriot media have lauded the positive team atmosphere, noting that players celebrated goals by pointing to their assists. Fans have reportedly returned to the club, with ultras attending Yitzhaki's debut training session and celebrating with the players post-match. Reports suggest the pressure has lifted, and players are showing renewed self-belief.

According to local sports outlets, Yitzhaki has successfully changed the team's psychology, with his influence evident from the first game. The team displayed determination, intensity, and courage, marking the best possible start to his tenure, though more time is needed for him to fully instill his philosophy.

The signing of Yitzhaki is described as a "chess move" by the Anorthosis management, with the team now considered tactically superior, with players understanding their roles clearly. The team also showed passion, a trait noted as missing in previous games. Notably, Anorthosis scored two of their three season goals in Yitzhaki's debut.

Yitzhaki utilized a 3-5-2 formation, similar to his previous approach, and gave a start to winger Babacar Dione as a second striker, who performed well in his 86 minutes on the field. Dione, 29, has limited prior experience in this role but could become a regular fixture. Yitzhaki commented that it was not an easy game but was pleased with the result after the first goal, emphasizing the importance of home advantage and noting that they have not yet achieved any major success. The team's next opponent is Aris Limassol.