Hapoel Tel Aviv Celebrates Toto Cup Title After 14-Year Drought

Hapoel Tel Aviv secured a significant trophy, the Toto Cup, defeating Maccabi Tel Aviv 3-2 in a match that marked their first league title since the 2011/12 season. The victory, celebrated enthusiastically by players and staff, was seen as a return to the club's glory days. Coach Eliniv Brada expressed pride in the team's progress, stating that success is built within the club and that they are working to bring pride to their fans.

Despite the overall satisfaction, moments of anxiety arose during the game, particularly when Dor Peretz scored Maccabi's second goal. The team acknowledged that a missed opportunity by Ester Sukler could have led to a difficult comeback scenario. Brada admitted to making tactical errors with substitutions late in the game, taking responsibility for the pressure that ensued.

Looking ahead, Hapoel Tel Aviv is optimistic about retaining key players whose contracts are expiring. Fernand Mayembo, Assaf Tzur, and Marcus Coco are nearing the end of their contracts, but the club intends to negotiate extensions, viewing them as integral to the team's 'family' atmosphere. Emmanuel Boateng, who suffered an orbital fracture, may be fit for the upcoming match against Maccabi Haifa, while Daniel Dapa's impending military conscription is not expected to cause significant disruption.

The team also reacted to the State Cup draw, which pits them against Maccabi Tel Aviv once again. While they would have preferred an easier opponent, Hapoel Tel Aviv expressed confidence in their ability to face any challenge, stating they no longer fear any opponent.