Hapoel Tel Aviv Beats Beitar Jerusalem on Penalties After Last-Minute Equalizer

Hapoel Tel Aviv staged a dramatic comeback against Beitar Jerusalem in the Toto Cup quarterfinals on Saturday night at the Netanya Stadium, securing a place in the semifinals after winning a penalty shootout. The match, part of the 2026/27 season opener for both teams, saw Hapoel score a late equalizer in the 98th minute through Daniel Dappa, forcing extra time after Beitar appeared poised to win.

Beitar Jerusalem, the reigning runner-up, played with a depleted squad but took the lead in the 23rd minute through Kalo after Hapoel initially scored in the 19th minute. In the second half, Beitar’s new signing, veteran striker Sean Weisman, made his debut and converted a penalty to put Beitar ahead again. However, Hapoel’s persistence paid off with Dappa’s last-gasp goal, sending the match to penalties.

During the shootout, Beitar players faltered, allowing Hapoel to clinch the victory. This win comes just two days after Maccabi Tel Aviv claimed the season’s first title by defeating Hapoel Be’er Sheva in the Super Cup. Hapoel’s triumph over their city rival Beitar in their first official match of the season could signal a promising start for the club in the upcoming campaign.