Beitar Jerusalem Adopts New Training Protocol Ahead of Conference League Match Amid Tisha B'Av Fast

Beitar Jerusalem is preparing for its upcoming Conference League qualifier against AEK Larnaca with a new training approach influenced by practices in Germany. Ahead of the match scheduled for Thursday, the team held its final training session on Wednesday, moved earlier to accommodate players observing the Tisha B'Av fast. Coach Almog Cohen plans to finalize the starting lineup only shortly before the game, assessing which fasting players feel fit to play. Cohen is still deciding between Gil Cohen and Liel Darai for the center-back position alongside Brian Carvalli, with a preference for the more experienced Gil Cohen. Boris's place in midfield is not guaranteed, and forward line decisions depend on whether players Sean Weisman, Daniel Vorko, and Ziv Ben Shimol choose to fast.

To reduce muscle injury risks, Beitar has implemented a new protocol involving five physiotherapists at every training session, mirroring a German model. Three physiotherapists traveled with the team to Cyprus, while two remain in Israel to rehabilitate injured players including Luka Gadrani, Tomer Yossefi, and Adi Yona. Meanwhile, midfielder Ailson Tavares has not joined the Cyprus trip as the club continues efforts to transfer him. However, Beitar suspects his agents are delaying negotiations without actively seeking loan or purchase offers. If no buyer emerges, the club may have to release Tavares for free to sign another foreign player. Tavares reportedly only wants to return to Portugal and refuses to consider staying with another Israeli team.