Hapoel Tel Aviv Returns to European Competition with 2-0 Win Over Ludogorets

After a 12-year absence from European tournaments, Hapoel Tel Aviv marked their return with a 2-0 victory against Bulgarian powerhouse Ludogorets on July 23, 2026. The match took place in Miskolc, Hungary, in front of 5,000 passionate Hapoel fans. Omri Altman opened the scoring just before halftime, and Chico sealed the win with a late goal in the 90th minute, giving Hapoel a significant advantage ahead of the second leg in Bulgaria.

Despite Ludogorets entering the match as favorites due to their experienced squad and a market value difference of 32.66 million euros, Hapoel managed to hold firm defensively, preventing the Bulgarians from threatening goalkeeper Assaf Tzur. Lucas Palkao was instrumental in midfield, repeatedly disrupting Ludogorets' play. The game was briefly halted due to heavy smoke from flares in the stands.

Hapoel's squad has not seen major reinforcements this summer and even weakened with the departure of Luzio Louiso. Additionally, the team had to forgo home advantage by playing away from their Bloomfield Stadium. Nevertheless, the players, especially the foreign recruits, showed promising performances, suggesting they can elevate the club's competitive level.

Key moments included a free-kick from Stav Turyel that led to Altman's header for the opening goal, and a near second goal by Daniel Dappa that hit the post. Chico's goal in the final minute confirmed the win, setting up a tense return leg. This victory rekindles memories of Hapoel's past European nights against clubs like AC Milan, Chelsea, and PSG, signaling a hopeful new chapter for the club on the continental stage.