Yossi Benayoun Sent Off in Over-35 Maccabiah Match Against Brazil

The 22nd Maccabiah Games kicked off with a highly anticipated opening match for players over 35, held at Herzliya Stadium on July 2, 2026. The Israeli veterans team faced Brazil and lost 2-1. During the game, Israeli captain Yossi Benayoun, a national team legend with over 700 appearances, was shown a direct red card in the 80th minute after pushing Brazilian player David.

Benayoun’s red card was notable as it was only the second in his career; the first occurred in March 2014 while playing for Queens Park Rangers in England’s Championship league. In that match, he scored the winning goal but was sent off late in the game.

In the Maccabiah match, Brazil took the lead in the 17th minute when Leiao scored with a lob over Israeli goalkeeper Liran Strauber. The game’s most spectacular goal came just before halftime, when Warog struck a stunning volley to equalize. Amir Turgeman managed to reduce the deficit for Israel in the 76th minute, but the team could not avoid defeat.

Benayoun’s dismissal marked a dramatic moment in the opening game of the veteran tournament, overshadowing the festive start of the Maccabiah Games.