Hapoel Be'er Sheva Defender Matan Baltaxa Doubtful for Upcoming Champions League Matches

Hapoel Be'er Sheva is set to face Vikingur in their opening match as they aim to reach the group stage of the UEFA Champions League for the first time. However, defender Matan Baltaxa will miss the first leg against the Icelandic team due to a muscle strain sustained during the final training session. His condition also puts his participation in the next qualifying round match in Sombathely, Hungary, in serious doubt. Coach Ran Kuzuh will start the match with Eliel Peretz on the bench, a tactical decision by the coaching staff rather than injury-related. The match marks a significant step for the southern Israeli club in European competition.