Shua Assists Twice as Beitar Jerusalem Draws 2-2 in Season Opener Friendly

Beitar Jerusalem began their 2026/27 season with a 2-2 draw against Bulgarian side Botev Vratsa in a lively friendly match on July 3. The game marked the unofficial coaching debut of Almog Cohen and featured a mix of experienced and new players.

The capital club took an early lead in the seventh minute when Yarden Shua intercepted the ball and assisted Timothy Muzi for the opener. Despite Muzi creating several early chances, Beitar conceded twice to Botev Vratsa in the 14th and 27th minutes following a penalty caused by young left-back Amit Hilo.

Shortly after, newcomer Eugene Ansah scored his first goal for Beitar, assisted by Shua, leveling the match at 2-2, which remained the final score. The substitutes showed promise, with notable performances from Yarden Vorko and Ilai Hajaj, both making unofficial debuts.

Beitar will continue their preseason preparations with a friendly against Arda later this week and face Hapoel Tel Aviv in a European competition match on July 18. Their first Conference League qualifying round match against AEK Larnaca is scheduled for July 23 in Cyprus.

Starting lineup included Miguel Silva, Roy Elimelech, Brian Crabli, Uri Dahan, Amit Hilo, Ziv Ben Shimol, Boris Ino, Noam Motzhe, Timothy Muzi, Eugene Ansah, and Yarden Shua. The second half featured Yoni Ozer, Liel Deri, Gil Cohen, Yarden Cohen, Nadav Markovitz, Ailson Tabarsh, Yarden Vorko, Ilai Hajaj, Junobusko Kalu, and Yarden Shua.