Hapoel Tel Aviv Wins Toto Cup in Derby Thriller

Hapoel Tel Aviv secured the Toto Cup, the third most important Israeli football trophy, defeating Maccabi Tel Aviv 3-2 in a dramatic derby match. The victory, achieved on Thursday, brought significant joy to the club's fans who had waited many years for such a triumph. Winning coach Eliniv Barda expressed great happiness and pride for the supporters, acknowledging the importance of the win for Israeli football. He admitted to making substitutions too early in the game, suggesting he should have waited longer, but was pleased with the team's offensive performance, scoring three goals and potentially more. Barda noted the win continues the team's positive trajectory from the previous year and aims for continued success in April. He also praised the club's ownership for providing a stable working environment. Reflecting on the upcoming league match against Maccabi Haifa, Barda stated the team is aware of its league objectives. He expressed mixed feelings about conceding two goals, seeing it as a potential factor in keeping the team focused and grounded. Barda also lauded player Daniel Dafa, an 18-year-old who is soon to be drafted into the army, highlighting his improved performance this season after an acclimatization year and stating that continued hard work will pave his way to success. Dafa himself spoke of his hard work, the crowd's support, and the immense joy of scoring in a derby. He credited the coach and teammates for their encouragement and the fans' trust. Dafa described the late scare from Maccabi as part of football, attributing it to moments of lost concentration, but emphasized the team's unity and composure under pressure, maintaining their style of play even at 3-2.