Jerusalem FC Welcomes Back Injured Player for Sakhnin Match

Hapoel Jerusalem is preparing to host Bnei Sakhnin on Saturday evening at Teddy Stadium, aiming for their first home victory of the season before the international break. The team, which secured a point against Maccabi Netanya after a challenging series of games, has yet to win at home this season, having lost to Maccabi Haifa and Hapoel Tel Aviv. The significant team news is the return of Eduard Chilufia to training after suffering a broken nose. He has been practicing with a custom-fitted mask and is expected to be available for the match, though his playing time will be limited. Meanwhile, the availability of Nedim Varešanović, who was injured during the Netanya game, remains uncertain. Shahrani Zubayro is also doubtful due to a minor strain, and Sunny Abdulsalam continues to deal with an injury. Jonathan Lish is also out of the squad. The club expressed satisfaction with the team's defensive performance against Netanya and praised Christ Tiehi for his midfield leadership. Hapoel Jerusalem acknowledges the challenge posed by Sakhnin, who are on a five-game unbeaten streak and have conceded only seven goals this season. The coaching staff anticipates a physical match against Sakhnin's strong defense and plans to counter their attack, specifically targeting Ahmed Salman and Romanian striker Daniel Parskyv. The team believes patient ball movement and smart attacking play will be key to breaking down Sakhnin's defense and securing their first home win. Coach Lior Zada stated that difficult games help the team mature and expressed hope for stronger performances in the future. He emphasized the team's focus on Sakhnin, aiming to bring their recent experiences into the game for a positive result. Zada acknowledged Sakhnin's good form, experienced coach, and tough defense, but expressed confidence in his own team's abilities, especially playing at home. He noted the absence of significant attacking players and the uncertainty surrounding Zubayro and Varešanović due to minor strains. Zada highlighted the team's ongoing improvement in all aspects of the game, seeking consistency and strength. Player Ohad Almogor expressed excitement about returning home and acknowledged Sakhnin's current momentum, stressing the need for concentration from the start and believing the team can secure a win before the break. Player Ofek Nadir stated it's time for a home win at Teddy Stadium, especially after recent results, and emphasized the need for aggressive pressing and attacking play. He also discussed a shift towards more direct football with fewer risks in the back, aiming for more attractive play while acknowledging defensive vulnerabilities that need correction.