Hapoel Tel Aviv Wins Toto Cup After 14-Year Drought

Hapoel Tel Aviv secured their first major title in 14 years, defeating fierce rivals Maccabi Tel Aviv 3-2 in the Toto Cup final on Thursday. The victory marks Hapoel's first league-level trophy since winning the State Cup in 2012. Despite a near collapse in the final minutes, where they squandered a 3-0 lead, Hapoel's aggressive and determined performance ultimately secured the win.

Daniel Daya was instrumental for Hapoel, delivering his best performance since joining the club. He consistently troubled Maccabi's defense, created chances, earned a penalty, and scored a crucial goal. Hapoel's defense also held strong during Maccabi's pressure, particularly before they extended their lead to 3-0.

Maccabi Tel Aviv mounted a dramatic comeback late in the game, with Dor Peretz scoring twice to narrow the deficit to 3-2. However, a last-minute chance by Aster Sukler narrowly missed the target, sealing Hapoel's victory. This marks Hapoel Tel Aviv's second Toto Cup title, with their previous win dating back to 2002.

The match saw an aggressive start with flares and smoke from both sets of fans causing a temporary stoppage. Hapoel took the lead through Roy Elkoqin in the 18th minute. Omri Altman converted a penalty in the 78th minute to make it 2-0, and Daniel Daya added a third goal in the 83rd minute. Maccabi's comeback began in the 89th minute with Dor Peretz's first goal, followed by his second in the 91st minute.