Hapoel Tel Aviv Secures Toto Cup Title, Eyes More Trophies

Hapoel Tel Aviv clinched the Toto Cup title, defeating Maccabi Tel Aviv 3-2 in a dramatic final. This victory marks Hapoel's first trophy in 14 years. Commentators Tal Ben Haim and Eli Gutman analyzed the match, with Gutman expressing confidence that this is not Hapoel's last title this season.

Gutman praised Hapoel's current iteration, highlighting its blend of quality, character, defense, and offense, all orchestrated by a strong coach. He credited the club's ownership, Safra, for allowing the professional staff to work effectively and quietly, leading to the recruitment of good foreign players. Gutman emphasized Hapoel's established "club" identity, stability, and a clear vision, enabling them to field a competitive team with a solid spine of Israeli and foreign players.

Conversely, Gutman issued a warning to Maccabi Tel Aviv, calling the derby a "yellow card" for them. He believes Maccabi needs to strengthen its squad with at least two quality players, expressing doubt about their current roster's ability to secure the championship. Gutman pointed to Maccabi's performance in the derby, citing their loss in tackles and lack of chances created as evidence of their struggles.

Tal Ben Haim echoed Gutman's sentiments, stating that Maccabi Tel Aviv failed to create significant scoring opportunities until the 90th minute and posed no real threat. He described Hapoel's victory as unequivocally deserved and a tactical masterclass by coach Elimiv Barda over Maccabi's Kenny Miller. Ben Haim suggested that even if a penalty was awarded, Maccabi's overall lack of presence in the game was the more critical issue, asserting that Maccabi Tel Aviv "did not exist" and is in dire need of reinforcements in January.