Hapoel Tel Aviv Secures 2-0 Win Over Ludogorets in European Comeback Match

Hapoel Tel Aviv achieved a significant 2-0 victory against Bulgarian side Ludogorets in their European home match held in Miskolc, Hungary, on Thursday. This marked Hapoel's first European game in 12 years, drawing an impressive crowd of around 6,000 passionate fans. The win gives the Israeli team a strong advantage ahead of the second leg in Bulgaria next week as they aim to advance to the third qualifying round of the UEFA Conference League.

Coach Aliniv Bereda fielded the same starting eleven that recently defeated Beitar Jerusalem, maintaining team consistency. The match was briefly interrupted early on due to flares lit by Hapoel supporters behind goalkeeper Asaf Tzur's goal but resumed after the smoke cleared. The first half was largely uneventful until Hapoel winger Satu Toriel made a decisive impact. In the 44th minute, Toriel delivered a free-kick cross that found captain Omri Altman, who scored to give Hapoel a deserved 1-0 lead going into halftime.

In the second half, Hapoel continued to dominate, with Toriel creating multiple chances. Despite a few attempts by Ludogorets, goalkeeper Asaf Tzur remained secure. The match's decisive moment came late when Toriel's free-kick was parried by the Ludogorets keeper to Maaymbo, whose shot hit the post. The rebound fell to Chico, who scored into an open net, sealing a 2-0 victory for Hapoel.

Bereda praised his squad's performance, highlighting their ability to neutralize the Bulgarian favorites and the effective substitutions that helped maintain the lead. The team now prepares for the crucial away leg in Bulgaria, aiming to capitalize on their strong home advantage and progress further in European competition.