Hapoel Katamon Jerusalem Prepares for Historic UEFA Women’s Champions League Debut Against PAOK Thessaloniki

Hapoel Katamon Jerusalem’s women’s team is set to make its first-ever appearance in the UEFA Women’s Champions League qualifiers following their historic first Israeli Premier League title win in their sixth season. The team, coached by Tzach Sharoni, will face Greek champions PAOK Thessaloniki in their opening match on Wednesday at 18:30 local time in Veria, about 75 km from Thessaloniki. This marks a significant milestone for the club and Israeli women’s football.

The squad retained most of its championship-winning core, losing only two players, Ziv Rot Hazan and Hadas Morin. They strengthened their roster with notable signings including Daniela Solera, goalkeeper of the Costa Rican national team and a 2023 World Cup participant, and Brazilian forward Raiza, who has experience in the Israeli league. Israeli talents Ella Ben Tzvi and Tal Feingezicht also joined the team this summer. Doris Buadva will miss the match due to commitments with the Ghana national team.

The Champions League qualifiers feature a mini knockout tournament format. Katamon will face PAOK in the semi-final round, with the winner advancing to face either Neftçi Baku or Budućnost in the final for a spot in the next round against Hungarian club Ferencváros. PAOK boasts a strong squad mainly composed of Greek national team players, led by striker Minela Gacinja, who scored 23 goals last season.

Coach Sharoni expressed great excitement and confidence ahead of the match, emphasizing the team’s rigorous preparation and clear goal of victory. He highlighted the club’s support and the historic nature of the event, noting the expected presence of several dozen Israeli fans traveling to Greece. The team is focused solely on PAOK and preparing intensively for the two upcoming matches.

This debut represents a landmark moment for Hapoel Katamon Jerusalem and Israeli women’s football on the European stage, with hopes high for a successful campaign.